Vitals & Voices

Lexington Regional Health Center
  • 5.0 (3)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Vitals and Voices, brought to you by Lexington Regional Health Center — your community, your health, your care. This is your trusted source for health-related content that matters to you. Each episode, we bring you real conversations with the voices behind the care — from medical experts and wellness champions to community leaders and patients — sharing insights, stories, and tips to help you live your healthiest life. Whether you're tuning in from Lexington or beyond, we're here to inform, inspire, and connect. Because at LRHC, your health is our priority — and your voice matters.

  1. 1D AGO

    Is Mental Health Medication Right for Me?

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Stephanie Reutlinger, PMHNP, a Family Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner at Family Medicine Specialists, to have an honest, compassionate conversation about mental health medication what it is, what it isn’t, and how it can support whole-person care. Stephanie shares why she chose to pursue additional mental health certification after years in family practice, how mental health care fits seamlessly into primary care, and why medication should be seen as a tool—not a label. Together, we unpack common fears, misconceptions, and stigma surrounding mental health medication, while offering practical insight for those considering treatment or supporting someone who is. Whether you’ve been quietly wondering if medication might help, feel unsure about starting the conversation, or want to better support a loved one, this episode offers clear guidance, reassurance, and encouragement rooted in real-world care. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: When mental health medication may be helpful—and when it may not be the right fitWhy treatment is never one-size-fits-allSigns it may be time to talk with a providerWhat to expect when starting medication, including timelines and follow-upsWhy regular monitoring and shared decision-making matterCommon myths vs. facts about mental health medicationHow to support a loved one without creating shame or pressure Why This Episode Matters: Mental health medication often comes with hesitation, fear, or misunderstanding but for many people, it can be a life-changing part of care. Stephanie emphasizes that needing medication doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you; it means your brain may need support, just like any other part of your body. The good news? Care is personal, confidential, and flexible. Many people benefit from medication short-term, others longer-term, and some not at all. What matters most is having a trusted provider, open communication, and a plan that evolves with you. If you’ve been unsure whether to ask for help—or you’re supporting someone who is—this episode is a reassuring reminder that questions are welcome, options exist, and help is available right here in our community. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    18 min

  2. MAY 19

    Alcohol & Drug Counseling: Education, Support, and Local Resources

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Jamie Roberts, Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner and Provisional Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at Lexington Regional Health Center, to have an open, honest conversation about alcohol and drug counseling—and why support is available long before someone reaches “rock bottom.” Jamie shares her journey into mental health and addiction counseling, explains what substance‑use counseling really looks like today, and breaks down the stigma that often keeps people from reaching out. Whether you’re questioning your own relationship with substances, worried about a loved one, or simply want to better understand the resources available in our community, this episode offers compassionate insight and practical guidance. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What alcohol and drug counseling truly involvesWhy you don’t have to be in crisis to seek helpCommon signs counseling may be beneficialHow substance use can affect mental health, family life, work, and schoolTherapy approaches used in treatment, including DBT, CBT, and multisystemic therapyHow loved ones and families can be supported through counseling Why This Episode Matters: Substance use is a health issue and support can make a life‑changing difference at any stage. Early intervention, compassionate care, and reducing stigma can help prevent bigger challenges down the road. If you or someone you love is struggling, questioning, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this episode is a reminder that help is available locally and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    14 min

  3. MAY 12

    When Memories Feel Stuck: A Real Conversation About EMDR

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we continue our mental health conversation with Tracy Weiland, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Lexington Regional Health Center, to explore a therapy that many people have heard about—but few truly understand: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Tracy breaks down EMDR in plain language, explaining how trauma can become “stuck” in the brain and body, why you can’t always just “think your way out” of distress, and how bilateral stimulation helps the brain safely reprocess painful memories. From long‑lasting childhood trauma to single‑event experiences like car accidents or phobias, Tracy shares who EMDR may help, what therapy sessions actually look like, and why feeling safe and in control is always the priority. Whether you’ve struggled with anxiety, feel haunted by a past event, or wonder why certain memories still affect you years later, this honest and reassuring conversation offers clarity, hope, and practical insight into one of today’s most effective trauma‑focused therapies. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What EMDR is (and what it is not)How trauma is stored in the brain and bodyWhy EMDR does not involve hypnosisWhat bilateral stimulation looks like in real sessionsWhy coping skills come before reprocessingWho EMDR may help—and when it might not be the first stepWhat progress and “success” can look like over time Why This Episode Matters: So many people believe they should be over past experiences—but trauma doesn’t work on a timeline. Untreated trauma can quietly shape emotions, relationships, and daily reactions long after the event itself. EMDR offers a structured, evidence‑based way to help the brain heal—often allowing people to feel lighter, more grounded, and more in control of their lives. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed by memories, or simply curious about new mental health treatment options, this episode is an empowering first step toward understanding your mind—and your healing—more clearly. If anything discussed in this episode resonates with you, Lexington Regional Health Center’s mental health team is here to help you explore the care and support that fits you best. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    27 min

  4. MAY 5

    You’re Not Alone: Navigating Workplace Stress and Burnout

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Ann Young, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Lexington Regional Health Center, to take on a challenge many of us face every day—workplace stress. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Ann helps unpack when “being busy” crosses the line into burnout and how stress can quietly affect not just your job, but your sleep, health, relationships, and overall well‑being. This conversation offers practical, realistic tools for managing stress in real life—from setting boundaries and taking meaningful breaks to recognizing early warning signs your body and mind are sending. Ann also shares guidance on when it may be time to seek professional support and what that first step can look like. Whether you love your job but feel overwhelmed, struggle to shut your brain off after work, or feel guilty taking time for yourself, this episode provides clarity, validation, and small steps that can make work stress feel more manageable. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between everyday stress and burnoutCommon physical and emotional signs of workplace stressWhy stress is so widespread—and how it spills into life outside of workPractical self‑care strategies that actually work in busy schedulesHow to set boundaries without guiltTips for communicating workload concerns with supervisorsWhen to stop “pushing through” and seek professional supportWhat to expect from a first mental health visit Why This Episode Matters: Workplace stress doesn’t just stay at work—it follows us home and can quietly impact our mental and physical health over time. The good news? Stress is manageable, burnout is preventable, and support is available. With the right tools and conversations, it’s possible to protect your well‑being without sacrificing your job or sense of purpose. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or stuck in survival mode, this episode is a reminder that your health matters—and you’re not alone. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    19 min

  5. APR 28

    Healing After Trauma: Understanding PTSD and the Path Forward

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Karina Lupercio, Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner at Lexington Regional Health Center, to talk about a topic that quietly impacts many people in our community: trauma and PTSD. Karina breaks down what trauma really is, how PTSD is different, and why there’s no “right” or “wrong” way the body responds after overwhelming experiences. Together, we explore common myths—like the idea that PTSD only affects veterans or that time alone will heal everything—and replace them with clear, compassionate truth. Karina also shares practical coping tools, grounding techniques, and an overview of trauma‑focused therapies that help people heal without reliving pain over and over again. Whether you’re navigating a past experience, supporting a loved one, or simply want to better understand mental health, this episode offers reassurance, education, and hope. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What trauma is—and why it looks different for everyoneHow PTSD develops and when symptoms may signal it’s time for supportCommon misconceptions about trauma and PTSDHealthy ways to cope and care for yourself after a traumatic experienceGrounding techniques that calm the nervous systemTrauma‑focused treatment options, including EMDR and exposure‑based therapiesHow Lexington Regional Health Center’s mental health team works together to support patients Why This Episode Matters: Trauma doesn’t have to come from a single “extreme” event, and PTSD doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. These experiences affect the brain, body, and emotions—and help is available. With the right support, people can feel safer, more grounded, and more like themselves again. If something in this conversation resonates with you, know this: you don’t have to carry it alone—and healing is possible. This episode is a meaningful first step toward understanding trauma, reducing stigma around mental health care, and finding the support that works for you. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    28 min

  6. APR 21

    Healthy Feet, Healthy Life: Why Foot Health Matters

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with podiatrist Dr. Joshua Wray to highlight National Foot Health Awareness Month and explore why foot health plays a much bigger role in overall wellness than most people realize. Dr. Wray shares how our feet often provide early warning signs of deeper health issues, why foot pain should never be ignored, and how simple daily habits can prevent long‑term complications. From diabetes-related foot concerns to common issues like heel pain and plantar fasciitis, this conversation breaks down what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to seek care. Whether you’re always on your feet, managing a chronic condition, or brushing off lingering pain, this episode offers practical insight to help keep you moving comfortably and safely. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why foot health is essential to whole‑body healthCommon foot problems and warning signs you shouldn’t ignoreHow diabetes and neuropathy affect the feetSimple daily habits to protect your foot healthWhen to see a podiatrist and why early care matters Why This Episode Matters: Foot pain isn’t just an inconvenience, it can be an early signal of larger health concerns and, if left untreated, may lead to serious complications over time. The good news? Many foot and ankle issues are highly treatable, especially when addressed early. By paying attention to your feet and taking proactive steps, you can stay active, avoid long‑term problems, and protect your overall health. If foot pain is slowing you down—or you’ve been putting off care—this episode is a timely reminder that your feet carry you through life, and they deserve attention every step of the way. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    16 min

  7. APR 14

    Why You’re Still Tired: When a Sleep Study Can Help

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Leonard Wilson, Director of Respiratory Therapy at Lexington Regional Health Center, to break down a surprisingly common but often overlooked health issue—sleep disorders. Leonard explains why sleep is so much more than “rest,” how problems like snoring or daytime fatigue can signal something deeper, and when a sleep study can truly change your health—and your life. Whether you’ve wondered why you wake up exhausted, know someone who snores, or have been ignoring symptoms for years, this conversation offers a clear, practical guide to understanding sleep apnea, sleep studies, and the next steps that lead to better sleep and better health. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why sleep studies matterCommon misconceptionsSigns you might need a sleep studyUnderstanding the difference between at-home and in-lab sleep studiesHow results work and what comes next Why This Episode Matters: Sleep issues don’t just make you tired—they can quietly impact your entire body and increase health risks over time. The good news? Sleep apnea is highly treatable, and many people feel dramatically better within days to weeks of starting the right therapy. If you’re tired of feeling tired—or you love someone who snores, gasps, or struggles through the day—this episode is a powerful first step toward better sleep and better long‑term health. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    18 min

  8. APR 7

    More Than Just Low Energy: A Men’s Health Check‑In with Travis Barkmeier

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Travis Barkmeier, Family Nurse Practitioner, to break down one of the most common—but most overlooked—topics in men’s health today: testosterone, energy, and overall hormonal wellbeing. Travis helps explain what symptoms really matter, why low testosterone is getting so much attention, and what men can expect from evaluation and treatment—including services available locally right here in Lexington. Whether you’ve noticed changes in energy, mood, sleep, performance, or motivation—or you’re supporting someone who has—this conversation offers a clear, practical guide to understanding men’s health and hormone balance. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why testosterone is a hot topicCommon symptoms men shouldn’t ignoreWhat actually causes testosterone changesHow testosterone is evaluatedWhat testosterone treatment really looks likeSafety, side effects, and insurance basicsCare close to homeHow to get started Why This Episode Matters: Men often delay care until symptoms are disruptive—or until a partner encourages them to be seen. But as Travis explains, changes in energy, sleep, libido, or motivation are not “just getting older.” They’re real medical symptoms with real, evidence‑based treatments available. With trusted local providers, accessible testing, and personalized treatment options, men in our community don’t have to settle for feeling less than their best. If you’re ready to understand how testosterone impacts your overall wellbeing—and what steps can help you feel more like yourself again—this episode is a powerful place to start. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify

    13 min
See All (33)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Vitals and Voices, brought to you by Lexington Regional Health Center — your community, your health, your care. This is your trusted source for health-related content that matters to you. Each episode, we bring you real conversations with the voices behind the care — from medical experts and wellness champions to community leaders and patients — sharing insights, stories, and tips to help you live your healthiest life. Whether you're tuning in from Lexington or beyond, we're here to inform, inspire, and connect. Because at LRHC, your health is our priority — and your voice matters.

Information

  • Creator
    Lexington Regional Health Center
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Vitals & Voices
  • Show Website
    Vitals & Voices