Healthy Wealthy & Smart Dr. Karen Litzy, PT, DPT

In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart Podcast, we delve into making physical therapy clinics more inclusive for everyone, including the LGBT+ community. Our guest, Dr. Michelle Stauffer, a dedicated advocate for LGBT+ healthcare and a member of the APTA PT Proud Special Interest Group, shares her insights and experiences.
Dr. Stauffer discusses her journey into physical therapy, influenced by her athletic injuries and her identity as a member of the LGBT+ community. She highlights the importance of creating a safe and welcoming environment in healthcare settings, especially for those who often face discrimination and misunderstanding.
We explore practical steps to assess and enhance the inclusivity of a physical therapy clinic, starting from the exterior accessibility and moving inside to the waiting areas, treatment spaces, and restrooms. Dr. Stauffer emphasizes the significance of details such as inclusive signage, diverse representation in clinic decor, and thoughtful amenities that cater to a wide range of needs.
Additionally, we touch on the importance of inclusive paperwork and intake forms that respect all identities by allowing patients to specify their preferred names and pronouns. Dr. Stauffer also suggests resources for continuous learning and improvement in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) practices, encouraging clinic owners and therapists to seek education and adapt to better serve their communities actively.
This episode is packed with actionable advice for healthcare professionals who want to foster an inclusive atmosphere in their practices and ensure that all patients feel respected, safe, and valued.
Time Stamps: 
 
00:00:02 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
Host Dr. Karen Litzy introduces herself and welcomes Dr. Michelle Stauffer, discussing her background and expertise in providing care to the LGBT+ community.
00:01:15 - Dr. Stauffer's Journey to Physical Therapy
Dr. Stauffer shares her personal journey of becoming a physical therapist, including her athletic background and injuries.
00:05:05 - Creating an Inclusive Clinic
Discussion begins on how to assess and ensure a physical therapy clinic is inclusive, starting from the external appearance to internal operations.
00:10:03 - Accessibility and External Clinic Features
Dr. Stauffer discusses the importance of accessibility and external features of a clinic that can make it more inclusive.
00:16:37 - Involving Patients in Clinic Decor
Ideas on how involving patients in the clinic's decor can help in creating a more inclusive environment.
00:17:03 - Inclusive Paperwork and Forms
Tips on how to make intake forms and other paperwork more inclusive, including the use of open-ended questions and preferred name sections.
00:26:05 - Inside the Clinic: Waiting Area and Treatment Rooms
Suggestions for making the waiting area and treatment rooms welcoming and inclusive for all patients.
00:33:09 - Restroom and Changing Room Considerations
Discussion on how to make restrooms and changing rooms accessible and comfortable for everyone, including stocking necessary supplies.
00:39:02 - Staff Training on DEI
The importance of continuous staff training on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and resources for learning more about DEI practices.
00:45:24 - Final Thoughts and How to Connect
Dr. Stauffer shares final thoughts on making clinics inclusive and provides contact information for further resources and personal connection.
 
More About Dr. Michelle Stauffer:
 
Dr. Michelle Stauffer (she/her) is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Board Certified Health Wellness Coach who has spent her career focusing on under-resourced communities. Dr. Stauffer received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and upon completion, she began her journey of working with the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Stauffer founded Coast 2 Coast Wellness in 2021 with the mission of providing an

In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart podcast, host Dr. Jenna Kantor talks with Dr. Alyssa Arms about the pros and cons of niche podcasting. They delved into the world of niche podcasting and the ins and outs of running a successful podcast focused on dance medicine. Dr. Arms shared valuable insights on the pros and cons of niche podcasting, the challenges of time management, and the importance of staying consistent. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion:
·       Time Management: Running a niche podcast requires significant time and effort, from recording and editing episodes to promoting them on various platforms.
·       Financial Investment: Starting a niche podcast doesn't have to break the bank. Dr. Arms shared that she spent around $200-$300 on equipment and hosting services.
·       Audience Engagement: While it can be challenging to gauge audience feedback, engaging with guests and sharing valuable content can help build a loyal following.
·       Networking Opportunities: Interviewing experts in the field provides valuable insights and helps expand one's professional network and knowledge base.
Time Stamps: 
00:00:05 - Podcast Introduction
Introducing the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart podcast with host Dr. Karen Litzy, including a disclaimer about the content.
00:00:27 - Guest Introduction
Jenna Cantor introduces Dr. Alyssa Arms, discussing her impressive background and contributions to the physical therapy profession.
00:00:48 - Alyssa's Multifaceted Career
Alyssa briefly describes her diverse roles within the theater and physical therapy sectors, including her private practice and work as a professor.
00:01:21 - Podcast Focus and Value of Time
The conversation shifts to the importance of the listener's time and Alyssa's understanding of running a niche podcast.
00:02:08 - Dance Med Spotlight Podcast
Alyssa shares the title and theme of her own podcast, which focuses on dance medicine and dance science.
00:02:20 - Decision to Start a Podcast
Jenna asks Alyssa about her motivations for starting her podcast and the thought process behind it.
00:02:40 - Alyssa's Podcasting Journey
Alyssa recounts her initial hesitations and the support she received from Jimmy McKay of P.T. Pintcast, which helped her start her podcast.
00:04:26 - Support Among Podcasters
Jenna and Alyssa discuss the supportive nature of the podcasting community and the importance of not worrying about overlapping content.
00:05:08 - Individuality in Podcasting
The hosts talk about the uniqueness of each podcast and how different styles and approaches can attract various audiences.
00:06:33 - Interviewing and Learning from Guests
Alyssa explains how interviewing guests on her podcast has been a learning experience and has helped her build a professional network.
00:07:04 - Consistency and Time Management
The challenges of maintaining a consistent podcast release schedule and managing time effectively are discussed.
00:08:27 - Marketing and Promotion
Alyssa touches on the difficulties of marketing a podcast and ensuring it reaches the intended audience.
00:09:00 - Balancing Podcasting with Other Responsibilities
Alyssa talks about the struggle of juggling podcasting with her private practice and teaching responsibilities.
00:10:05 - Financial Aspects of Podcasting
Jenna inquires about the costs associated with starting and running a podcast, and Alyssa provides a rough estimate.
00:11:05 - The Challenge of Finding Podcast Guests
Alyssa discusses the ongoing effort required to find and secure guests for her podcast episodes.
00:12:21 - Return on Investment (ROI) for Niche Podcasts
The hosts consider the ROI of running a niche podcast, including the intangible benefits and challenges of not always knowing the impact on listeners.
00:13:30 - Motivations for Running a Niche Podcast
Alyssa shares her personal motivations for running her podcast, emphasizing the disse

In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart podcast, host Dr. Karen Litzy is joined by Dr. Mani Kukreja (MD, MPH, IIN), Entrepreneur and Founder of Integrative Health and Wellness Practice Livagewell, to discuss the hot topic of aging well.
 
Dr. Kukreja shared her personal journey from conventional medicine to a more holistic approach, driven by her own experience with Hashimoto's autoimmune thyroiditis. She emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of diseases rather than just treating symptoms.
 
We discussed the multifaceted nature of aging, which Dr. Kukreja defines as a progressive decline in biological functions leading to increased disease risk and reduced lifespan. She debunked the myth that aging is solely determined by genetics, highlighting that lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role.
 
Dr. Kukreja provided valuable insights into the processes of oxidation, inflammation, and detoxification in our bodies, explaining how they contribute to aging and the onset of age-related diseases. She stressed that while we cannot stop aging, we can certainly influence how we age by managing these biological processes.
 
Time Stamps: 
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
00:00:13 - Topic of Aging Introduced
00:00:36 - Guest Introduction: Dr. Mani Kukreja
00:01:08 - Dr. Mani's Background and Interest in Aging
00:02:16 - Dr. Mani's Personal Health Journey and Approach
00:04:36 - Dr. Mani's Experience with Her Father's Health
00:05:08 - Clinical Research Insights on Disease Progression
00:06:18 - Launching Live Age Well Practice
00:06:29 - Defining Holistic Health
00:08:03 - The Aging Industry and Control Over Aging
00:10:03 - Theories and Control of Aging
00:11:09 - Biological Age vs. Chronological Age
00:13:09 - Genetic and Lifestyle Factors in Aging
00:15:18 - Environmental Toxins and Aging
00:16:59 - Addressing Aging in Less Ideal Environments
00:20:43 - Importance of Knowledge and Self-Care
00:21:04 - Supplements and Their Claims
00:23:07 - Proprietary Blends in Supplements
00:24:05 - Frozen Fruits and Vegetables as an Option
00:25:32 - Reducing Biological Age
00:27:10 - Biological Age Explained
00:28:04 - Factors to Improve Biological Age
00:29:33 - Understanding Oxidation in the Body
00:33:08 - The Processes of Aging: Oxidation, Inflammation, Detoxification
00:37:11 - Solutions to Improve Biological Age
00:39:43 - Importance of Sleep in Aging
00:44:35 - Exercise as the Elixir of Youth
00:47:03 - Exercise and Brain Health
00:49:27 - Role of Supplements in Aging
 
More About Dr. Mani Kukreja:
Dr. Mani Kukreja (MD, MPH, IIN) is an integrative health and wellness expert and the founder/CEO  of  Livagewell. She has extensive experience helping her clients optimize their overall health, including metabolic, skin, gut, and immune health.  
 
Mani is a health, wellness, and lifestyle influencer, biohacker, and health advocate who is always on a quest to bio-optimize Health and Aging to live a balanced and sustainable life. 
 
Mani is also an ambassador to a few health-optimizing supplement brands that she truly believes in values. 
 
Dr Mani has authored several high-impact publications in peer-reviewed clinical research journals in the medical and wellness field throughout her career. 
 
 
Resources from this Episode:
LivAgeWell Website
Dr. Mani on Instagram
Clear Skin Chronicles
Intentionally Well Podcast
 
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Book a one-on-one demo here
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
 
 
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Karen’s Twitter
Karen’s Instagram
Karen’s LinkedIn
 
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I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Emily Scherb, also known as the Circus Doc, on the latest episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart podcast. Dr. Scherb shared valuable insights into the world of circus arts and how healthcare providers can support circus performers in achieving their goals while staying safe and healthy. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:
Circus encompasses various performing arts, from aerial silks to trapeze to acro yoga. Circus training is adaptable and can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages, with older performers showcasing longevity in their careers. Understanding the unique demands of circus movements, such as extreme ranges of motion and strength requirements, is crucial for clinicians working with circus artists. Research in circus medicine is growing, providing valuable insights into injury prevention and performance optimization. Dr. Scherb's upcoming online training program, Circus Fusion, allows clinicians to enhance their knowledge and skills in supporting circus performers.  
Time Stamps: 
00:00:03 - Introduction to the Podcast
00:00:14 - Dr. Emily Scherb's Background
00:00:55 - Defining Circus and Circus Performers
00:01:19 - Diversity in Circus Performances
00:02:32 - Professional vs. Recreational Circus
00:02:51 - Expansion of Circus into Fitness
00:03:43 - Circus as an Adult Recreational Activity
00:04:46 - Age and Circus Performance
00:05:13 - Circus for All Ages
00:06:49 - Older Circus Performers
00:07:54 - Longevity in Circus Careers
00:08:33 - Professional Performers Over 40
00:09:04 - Performance Quality with Age
00:09:47 - Pink's Circus-like Performances
00:10:08 - Overcoming Fear in Circus Classes
00:10:39 - Benefits of Trying Circus
00:11:34 - When to Take a Break from Circus Training
00:12:27 - Training Load Issues in Circus
00:13:07 - Assessing Circus Performers in the Clinic
00:14:10 - Testing Strength at End Range
00:15:28 - Specificity in Circus Performer Evaluation
00:16:10 - Using Tools to Measure Strength
00:17:08 - Addressing Deficiencies in Range and Strength
00:18:03 - Educating Circus Performers on Training
00:19:10 - Taping and Bracing in Circus
00:20:07 - Cultural Attitudes Towards Injuries
00:21:19 - Research in Circus Medicine
00:22:07 - Injury Patterns in Circus Performers
00:23:00 - Educating Healthcare Professionals on Circus Medicine
00:24:07 - Circus Fusion Training Program
00:25:10 - Research and Publications in Circus Medicine
00:26:15 - Advice to Younger Self
00:27:03 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement
 
More About Dr. Emily Scherb:
Dr. Emily Scherb is a physical therapist specializing in circus and performing arts medicine. Through her over 30 years of training and working in the circus arts she has gained deep insight on how circus bodies work in the air and on the ground. Emily owns a physical therapy practice in Seattle, WA in which clinicians specialize in the treatment of circus and performing artists. Emily now teaches workshops for circus artists, instructors, and healthcare providers with the mission of improving health and safety in circus training and performance. She is a board member of the American Youth Circus Organization / American Circus Educators as well as Seattle Dance and Performing Arts Medicine. Her bestselling book Applied Anatomy of Aerial Arts was published in 2018.
 
Resources from this Episode:
Dr. Emily’s Website
Dr. Emily’s Instagram
Circus Medicine Education
Free Gift: Circus Vocabulary List  
 
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Book a one-on-one demo here
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
 
 
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Karen’s Twitter
Karen’s Instagram
Karen’s LinkedIn
 
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart:
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In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart podcast, Dr. Karen Litzy enjoyed speaking with the incredible Maurice Ashley, an international chess grandmaster, analyst, commentator, motivational speaker, author, and Hall of Fame inductee. Maurice shared his journey from learning chess in Jamaica to becoming a grandmaster, emphasizing the importance of the journey over the destination and the value of learning from losses. We delved into the psychological aspects of chess, such as maintaining focus during a game and the necessity of having a coach or a team to hold you accountable. Maurice highlighted the importance of resilience, learning from mistakes, and the danger of complacency.
Additionally, Maurice talked about his new books, "Move by Move: Life Lessons On and Off the Chessboard" and "The Life-Changing Magic of Chess," which cater to both adults and children, respectively.
 
Show notes: 
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
00:00:12 - Introducing Guest Maurice Ashley
00:00:42 - Maurice Ashley's Career Highlights
00:01:04 - What is a Chess Grandmaster?
00:02:57 - The Process of Becoming a Grandmaster
00:03:11 - Importance of Beating Top Players
00:04:00 - Maurice's Introduction to Chess
00:06:07 - Learning Chess at Any Age
00:06:43 - Chess Lessons for Life and Business
00:07:22 - Maurice's Book "Move by Move"
00:10:05 - Overcoming Setbacks and Learning from Mistakes
00:13:59 - The Importance of Embracing Mistakes
00:17:00 - Maintaining Focus and Motivation
00:20:27 - The Role of a Coach or Accountability Partner
00:23:32 - The Importance of Having a Supportive Team
00:26:15 - Defining a Winner in Competition
00:29:10 - The Impact of Losing on Competitors
00:32:40 - Learning from Recorded Chess Matches
00:35:25 - Maurice's Books and Where to Find Them
00:38:06 - Upcoming Event with Maurice Ashley
00:40:12 - Key Takeaways from the Conversation
00:42:36 - Advice to 20-Year-Old Self
00:43:09 - Closing Remarks and Podcast Outro
 
More About Maurice Ashley: 
Maurice Ashley (he/him) is a Chess Grandmaster, an ESPN commentator, a three-time national championship coach, and an author. In 1999 he earned the title of Chess Grandmaster, making him the first Black Grandmaster in the game’s history, and in 2016 he was inducted into the US Chess Hall of Fame. He lives in Florida.
 
Resources from this Episode:
Website: https://mauriceashley.com/
YouTube: @GrandmasterMauriceAshley
Twitter: @MauriceAshley
Twitch: @GMAshley
Instagram: @mauriceashleychess
Facebook: Grandmaster Maurice Ashley
 
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Book a one-on-one demo here
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
 
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Karen’s Twitter
Karen’s Instagram
Karen’s LinkedIn
 
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart:
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On this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart Podcast, Dr. Karen Litzy delves into the world of foot and ankle health with expert Deborah L Walker Goetz, BS., MS., Ed., PT, an educator and healer passionate about getting people back on their feet. DL shares her journey into specializing in the foot and ankle, emphasizing the importance of balance, fall prevention, and the crucial role of the foot as the base of support for our body's center of gravity. Tune in to learn valuable insights on foot mobility and maintaining stability for overall health and wellness.
 
Show notes: 
[00:01:08] Foot and ankle interest sparked.
[00:07:37] Functional corrective diagnosis and evaluation.
[00:10:20] The importance of big toe.
[00:15:24] The importance of foot mobility.
[00:19:47] Foot and ankle surgeries.
[00:24:44] The complexity of the foot.
[00:28:25] Treating patients holistically.
[00:34:16] Alignment dictates function, stability, and mobility.
[00:35:19] Finding PT alignment for stability.
 
More About DL Walker:
Deborah L Walker Goetz, (DL Walker for short) is a Corrective Functional Therapist, Educator and Health Care Management Consultant, with a specialization in foot and ankle therapy.  With over 35 years in health care, her education includes degrees in Physical Therapy, Fitness, Cardiac Rehabilitation, and Exercise Science.
She has completed advanced post professional certifications in Functional Manual Therapy, Health Coaching, and Energetic Medicine.A teacher at heart, DL creates credentialed course work internationally for Physical Therapists (physios), Podiatrists, Podorthists, and Athletic Trainers. Her courses are approved for CPD credit in the UK and continuing education in 31 US states. Utilizing Diagnostic Functional Evaluation, a straightforward, simple, and targeted system to promptly identify the root cause of an issue, combined with a comprehensive corrective functional treatment method, facilitates a fast and comprehensive approach for the prevention, enhancement of performance, and rehabilitation of the lower kinetic chain.
 
Resources from this Episode:
DL’s Website
DL on Facebook
The Forefoot Forum Facebook Group
DL on LinkedIn
DL’s Email
DL’s Courses
DL on YouTube
Free Gift from DL
 
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Book a one-on-one demo here
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
 
 
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Karen’s Twitter
Karen’s Instagram
Karen’s LinkedIn
 
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart:
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Website
Apple Podcast
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