Pop Culture Podcast

Pop Culture Podcast, hosted by Laura Alexis, CEO of Pop Recovery Systems, and Dr. Eric Smith, DO FASMBS, offers a unique look at weight loss surgery and plastic surgery from both patient and surgeon perspectives. Laura, a visionary and passionate advocate for patient care, and Dr.Eric Smith, a pioneer in robotics for general surgery, explore the health and wellness industry, body image, and self-care. While they do dive into the life-changing effects of weight loss surgery and plastic surgery, they also focus on the journey of health and wellness with insight from the coolest guests. Tune in for expert insights, candid stories, and a well-rounded view of the transformative impact of these procedures from both sides of the operating table.

  1. 03/07/2025

    Jason Scheff on Overcoming Addiction, Finding Resilience, and His Music Journey

    In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith sit down with Jason Scheff, American musician, singer, and songwriter, best known for his time with Chicago. Jason opens up about his career journey in the music industry, sharing the challenges he faced and how he built resilience through tough times. They dive into the importance of taking breaks and maintaining perspective in both life and career. Jason also reflects on his path to sobriety, and they discuss the value of sharing personal experiences to help others on their own journeys. The conversation also touches on Jason's struggles with food and how food can become just as addictive as drugs. They explore how support systems, like 12-step programs and personal relationships, play a crucial role in overcoming addiction and staying on the path to recovery. Key Topics Covered: Jason Scheff’s journey in the music industry and the challenges of successThe importance of taking breaks and gaining perspectiveOvercoming addiction and the power of sharing personal experiencesThe parallels with food addiction and substance abuseThe role of support systems in recovery and resilienceIf you’re looking for motivation, personal growth, or inspiration on overcoming challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights! Tune in now for an empowering conversation. Follow Jason on Instagram @jasonscheff and Facebook @jasonscheffofficial.

    1h 25m
  2. 02/28/2025

    Richard William Burgi on Acting, Overcoming Rejection, and the Importance of Critical Thinking

    In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith welcome special guest Richard William Burgi, a renowned film and television actor known for his roles in Desperate Housewives, The Sentinel, and General Hospital. Richard shares his journey into acting, from recognizing his passion for the craft to overcoming rejection and navigating career transitions. They explore the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience in both Hollywood and everyday life. Richard discusses how the pandemic affected his career and the challenges he faced. The conversation explores the broader impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health, wellness, and the entertainment industry. Additionally, they examine how public health policies become politicized, the role of critical thinking in decision-making, and why respectful discussions are essential when addressing complex issues. Key Topics Covered: Richard Burgi’s journey in acting and overcoming rejectionThe role of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience in successHow the COVID-19 pandemic affected the entertainment industryThe impact of public health policies on wellness and daily lifeThe importance of critical thinking and respectful discussionsWhether you’re interested in Hollywood, personal growth, or health and wellness, this episode offers valuable insights! Tune in now. Follow Richard on Instagram @dick_burgi

    1h 1m
  3. 02/21/2025

    Dr. Charles Procter’s Journey to Becoming a Bariatric Surgeon, TV Fame, Treating Obesity, and Supporting Weight Loss Maintenance

    In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Dr. Eric Smith and Laura are joined by Dr. Charles Procter, bariatric surgeon and founding member of Beltline Health.  Known for advancing robotic-assisted weight loss surgeries, Dr. Procter has also made appearances on TLC’s hit reality shows, 1000-lb Sisters, 1000-lb Best Friends, and Too Large. Dr. Procter shares his fascinating journey to becoming a bariatric surgeon, including how TLC first approached him and the impact it had on his career. He also discusses balancing the demands of reality TV with his responsibilities as a surgeon. With a focus on the mental and emotional challenges of patients living with severe obesity, Dr. Procter discusses the importance of overcoming obstacles, finding hope, and the life-long nature of obesity as a disease. He also emphasizes the significance of weight loss maintenance and the role of prevention in combating obesity. Key Topics Covered: Dr. Procter’s path to becoming a bariatric surgeonThe impact of TLC’s reality shows on his careerThe mental and emotional challenges of extreme obesityThe importance of weight loss maintenancePreventing obesity and addressing it as a life-long diseaseTune in for an insightful conversation that combines pop culture, personal stories, and the science of bariatric surgery! Follow Dr. Charles Procter on Instagram @CharlesProcterMD, on Tiktok @charlesproctermd, and Facebook @CharlesProcterMD

    52 min
  4. 02/14/2025

    Empower Your Financial Future: Ashley Castle Pittman on Building Wealth, Wellness, and the Power of Financial Literacy

    In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Dr. Eric Smith and Laura are joined by Ashley Castle Pittman, a Financial Educator and Wealth Strategist, for an insightful conversation on financial literacy, wealth building, and achieving personal financial freedom. Ashley shares her inspiring story of how winning a global trip ignited her passion for travel and motivated her to build a career in financial education. From her experience with a marketing campaign designed to help her win the trip to discovering a deep love for exploring the world, Ashley reveals how pivotal moments and key decisions can shape the trajectory of your life. Ashley also dives into how her passion for health and wellness intersects with her journey to financial independence, particularly her involvement with Arbonne. She shares how she pursued more freedom and autonomy by focusing on wealth-building strategies that align with her values. As a financial educator, Ashley discusses how becoming a parent further fueled her desire to teach her children, and others, about building wealth. She also shares her top two must-read books for financial success: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel and The Power of Zero by David McKnight. Key Topics Covered: Ashley’s journey to becoming a financial educator and wealth strategistHow her path to financial independence led her to her passion for health and wellnessEmpowering children and others with financial literacy and wealth-building skillsCreating a balanced life by integrating smart financial decisions with personal valuesAshley’s top book recommendations for financial successTune in for a deep dive into financial freedom, wealth creation, and how to achieve a balanced life while making smart financial decisions. Links to the Books Mentioned The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel: Amazon LinkThe Power of Zero by David McKnight: Amazon LinkFollow Ashley on Instagram @ashley_castle_pittman

    47 min
  5. 02/07/2025

    Tim Couch on Sports, Wellness, Motivation, Fitness, and Discipline for Personal Growth and Success

    In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Dr. Eric Smith and Laura are joined by Tim Couch, a College Football Hall of Fame inductee, Heisman Trophy finalist, and former Kentucky football star. As the first overall draft pick in the 1999 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns, Tim shares his journey from being the most sought-after high school quarterback to earning a place among college football’s greatest. Tim opens up about his approach to nutrition, fitness, and the importance of sleep in maintaining peak athletic performance. He emphasizes how wellness is the foundation of his daily routine. They also dive into the role of discipline in achieving consistent improvement and how sports shape overall personal development and success. Beyond the game, Tim opens up about the mental resilience it took to overcome the challenges of his career being altered due to injuries. He reflects on how prioritizing mental health played a crucial role in navigating that transition, allowing him to redefine success beyond the field. Key Topics Covered: Tim Couch’s football career and Hall of Fame inductionHow sports promote growth, motivation, and diversityThe role of nutrition, fitness, and sleep in performanceWellness and discipline as keys to successThe impact of sports on personal growth and motivationHow mental health helped Tim navigate life after football and overcome career-altering injuriesIf you’re passionate about sports, wellness, motivation, and fitness, this episode offers valuable insights into how discipline and daily improvement can help you unlock your full potential both on and off the field. Follow Tim Couch on Instagram @tcdeuce2

    47 min
  6. 01/31/2025

    Revolutionizing Weight Loss and Wellness with Dr. Jonathan Kaplan on GLP-1 Medications, Bariatric Surgery, and Lifestyle Changes

    In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Dr. Eric Smith and Laura are joined by Dr. Jonathan Kaplan, plastic surgeon and founder/CEO of DrWell, to discuss the latest trends in health, wellness, and fitness. With a deep-rooted passion for medicine, Dr. Kaplan shares his expertise on the growing obesity epidemic and how innovative solutions like GLP-1 medications, bariatric surgery, and long-term lifestyle changes are transforming weight loss and overall health. In 2022, Dr. Kaplan’s team at DrWell began noticing a rise in patients with high BMI, prompting them to expand their services to include weight loss coaching, non-surgical treatments, and wellness medications. DrWell, a leading Provider-to-Consumer (PTC) platform, is revolutionizing how patients access healthcare by offering consultations, digital prescriptions, and continuous support for a healthier lifestyle. Key topics covered in this episode: The role of GLP-1 medications in weight loss and wellnessThe benefits of bariatric surgery in managing obesityThe importance of long-term lifestyle changes for sustainable fitnessHow health insurance is evolving to cover bariatric surgery and wellness treatmentsThe future of Provider-to-Consumer (PTC) models in health and wellnessHow DrWell is reshaping fitness, health, and wellness care for better access and resultsIf you’re interested in health, wellness, fitness, and the latest weight loss solutions, this episode offers expert insights into how new treatments, technologies, and lifestyle approaches are changing the way we approach fitness and well-being. Follow Dr. Jonathan Kaplan on Instagram @realdrbae and TikTok @drwellrx

    57 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Pop Culture Podcast, hosted by Laura Alexis, CEO of Pop Recovery Systems, and Dr. Eric Smith, DO FASMBS, offers a unique look at weight loss surgery and plastic surgery from both patient and surgeon perspectives. Laura, a visionary and passionate advocate for patient care, and Dr.Eric Smith, a pioneer in robotics for general surgery, explore the health and wellness industry, body image, and self-care. While they do dive into the life-changing effects of weight loss surgery and plastic surgery, they also focus on the journey of health and wellness with insight from the coolest guests. Tune in for expert insights, candid stories, and a well-rounded view of the transformative impact of these procedures from both sides of the operating table.

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