Vitals & Voices

Lexington Regional Health Center

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. 3H AGO

    Start 2026 Strong: SMART Goals & Healthy Habits for the New Year

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we dive into a topic that resonates with nearly everyone at the start of a new year—setting health goals that actually stick. Julie Levy, M.Ed., RD, LMNT, BC-ADM, CDCES, joins us to share practical strategies for building sustainable habits instead of chasing quick fixes. From SMART goals to aerobic activity guidelines and the seven self-care behaviors, Julie offers expert advice to help you start 2026 strong without feeling overwhelmed. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why health-related resolutions dominate January—and why most failHow to set SMART goals that are realistic and motivatingThe truth about aerobic activity guidelines and how to fit movement into your lifeThe Seven Self-Care Behaviors that go beyond diet and exerciseWhy focusing on one goal at a time leads to lasting successSimple, realistic tips for building healthy eating routines If you’re ready to make meaningful changes this year, start small, stay consistent, and give yourself grace along the way. For more resources or to connect with Julie Levy, visit https://lexingtonregional.org/ or call (308) 324-1680. 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    26 min
  2. JAN 6

    Understanding Physical Therapy

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we explore a topic that impacts millions of Americans every year—physical therapy. Leeann Smith, Physical Therapist Assistant at Lexington Regional Health Center, explains what physical therapy is, why it’s so important, and how it helps people recover, manage pain, and improve mobility. She also shares insights into the different specialties within PT and even talks about a unique resource many people don’t know we have—a therapy pool! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why physical therapy is essential for recovery and long-term healthThe most common reasons people seek PT servicesHow physical therapy works in different settings—hospital, clinic, and schoolsThe benefits of aquatic therapy and why our therapy pool is a game-changerSpecialties within physical therapy and how they support diverse patient needs If you’re dealing with pain, recovering from surgery, or just want to improve your mobility, physical therapy can make a big difference. Reach out to Lexington Regional Health Center’s therapy department at (308) 324-8333 or visit our website www.lexingtonregional.org to learn more and schedule an appointment. 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    28 min
  3. 12/30/2025

    From Stress to Success: Tackling Feeding Challenges in Children

    In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we explore a topic that affects many families—feeding challenges in children. Justine Bauer, Occupational Therapist at Lexington Regional Health Center, explains what occupational therapy is, how pediatric feeding therapy works, and why early intervention can make a big difference. She also shares practical tips for parents and signs that it’s time to seek professional help. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What occupational therapy really means for kids and familiesThe difference between picky eating and feeding difficultiesHow the SOS approach helps children overcome feeding challengesSimple strategies parents can try at homeWhen to seek a feeding therapy evaluation and how to get started If mealtime feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Reach out to Lexington Regional Health Center’s therapy department (308) 324-8333 or visit our website to learn more and schedule an evaluation. 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    24 min
  4. 12/16/2025

    Navigating Health Coverage After Job Loss

    In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we tackle a topic that’s on the minds of many families in our community—especially following the recent Tyson closure announcement: health insurance coverage after job loss. What happens when you lose your job? Should you apply for Medicaid right away? What if you get denied? And what exactly is the health insurance marketplace everyone talks about? To help us answer these questions, Brenna Bartruff sits down with Sandra Carvajal, one of LRHC’s bilingual financial counselors. Sandra and her team work every day to make sure patients understand their options and get the help they need. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How LRHC’s financial counseling department supports our communityWhat to do first if you lose your job and health coverageMedicaid explained in simple terms: who qualifies and what benefits it providesWhy bilingual support matters for Spanish-speaking familiesThe difference between Medicaid and the health insurance marketplaceSpecial enrollment periods and how to avoid coverage gapsPractical steps for families feeling overwhelmed Key Questions Answered: What are the first steps to take after losing employer coverage?Can you apply for Medicaid while applying for unemployment benefits?What happens if your Medicaid application is denied?How does the 90-day window work for fixing coverage gaps?What should families look for when choosing a marketplace plan to keep care local at LRHC?  Resources & How to Get Help: If you’re unsure where to start, LRHC’s financial counselors are here for you. Ways to connect: Call Family Medicine Specialists Clinic at (308) 324-8308 to schedule an appointment today. Closing Thoughts: Sandra reminds us that losing coverage doesn’t mean losing care. LRHC is committed to helping families navigate Medicaid, marketplace plans, and financial assistance options. If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share with friends and family. Together, we can make sure everyone in our community knows about these important resources. 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    9 min
  5. 12/12/2025

    Lexington Rallies: Resources Regarding the Tyson Closure Announcement

    In this episode, we sit down with Marni Baker, Welcome Center Coordinator for Lexington Public Schools, and Beth Roberts, Executive Director of the Lexington Community Foundation, to talk about how our community is responding to the Tyson plant closure announcement. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What employees should do if they know they’re impactedWorkforce and unemployment resources for familiesFinancial guidance and career fair informationHow the Lexington Community Foundation is helping—and how YOU can give back Key Links: Lexington Community Foundation: https://www.lexfoundation.org/Give BIG Lexington: https://www.givebiglexington.org/Nebraska Department of Labor Resources: https://dol.nebraska.gov/Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce: https://lexcoc.com/Community Action Partners: https://communityactionmidne.com/ Let’s come together to support our neighbors during this transition. 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    25 min
  6. 12/02/2025

    Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know

    Colon cancer is one of the most preventable yet serious health conditions affecting adults today. In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Roger Wells, a seasoned Physician Assistant specializing in primary care, prevention, and chronic disease management. Roger shares essential insights on colon cancer—from risk factors and screening tools to prevention strategies and treatment options. If you’ve ever wondered when to start screening, what a colonoscopy involves, or how family history impacts your risk, this episode is for you. Early detection saves lives—don’t miss this important conversation. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: A brief history of colon cancer and why it matters todayCommon causes and key risk factorsThe most effective screening tools availableHow family history influences screening recommendationsColon cancer prevalence among adults over 40 in the U.S.Cure rates by stage and what outcomes look likePractical steps to reduce your riskWhat to expect when scheduling your first colonoscopyEmerging technologies and treatments on the horizonMeet the general surgeons serving Lexington and surrounding communitiesHow to connect with Roger Wells and the Family Medicine Specialists ClinicResources & Contact: For more information or to schedule a screening, visit https://lexingtonregional.org/ or call 308-324-8308. 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    17 min
  7. 11/28/2025

    Stay Well, Stay Prepared

    In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Nicole Chrisinger, one of our dedicated social workers, to explore what it truly means to “be well.” Wellness goes beyond physical health—it’s about planning ahead and being prepared before a crisis occurs. Nicole shares practical steps you can take today to feel secure about your future needs and highlights key community resources that can make a big difference for you and your loved ones. If you’ve ever wondered where to start or felt overwhelmed by planning, this conversation will give you clarity and confidence. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What “being well” really means beyond physical healthWhy planning ahead matters for individuals and familiesCommon situations where preparation could have helpedSimple steps to start planning for future needs todayEssential community resources everyone should know aboutHow social workers can help connect you to supportNicole’s advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by planningOne powerful message about wellness and preparednessVitals & 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. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

    11 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 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.