Vitals & Values: Concierge Medicine of West Michigan

Concierge Medicine Of West Michigan
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Science Over Hype.  Values Over Virality. Vitals & Values is where evidence-based health meets unapologetic truth. Hosted by Dr. Lara (@lbaat), a concierge MD reshaping modern medicine, and David Roden (@Fit_DRock), a transformation coach who lost over 200 pounds and lived to tell the tale, this podcast isn’t here to go viral—it’s here to tell the truth. Every episode dives deep into: 🧬 Medicine & Metabolic Health🥦 Nutrition & Sustainable Weight Loss🏋️‍♂️ Fitness & Habit Formation✝ Christian Faith & Spiritual Stewardship💭 Mental Health & Lifestyle Resets 📅 Weekly Format: Vitals Check – Clinical clarity from Dr. LaraValues in Focus – Real-world forces behind health: mindset, faith, emotions, relationships, identity, and environmentThe Honest Table – Candid convos & unfiltered guestsThe Real Takeaway – A lifestyle or mindset challenge for the week This isn’t wellness theater. It’s not guru culture. It’s a movement for people who want to think critically, live intentionally, and take their health personally. 🎧 New episodes every Friday 📲 Follow @lbaat & @Fit_DRock on Instagram/TikTok 💼 Brought to you by Concierge Medicine of West Michigan – @cmwestmichiganThe information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your personal physician before making changes to your health routine.

  1. 19h ago

    GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs: 5 Things to Know BEFORE You Start

    Send us Fan Mail Top 5 Things to Know Before Starting GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss In this episode, we dive into the essential considerations for anyone contemplating GLP-1 therapies, addressing myths, safety, and real-world insights from healthcare professionals. Whether you're a patient or a healthcare provider, these points will help clarify the role of medications in weight management. Key Topics: The growing use of GLP-1 for weight loss and its current approval statusImportance of sourcing and avoiding non-FDA approved compounded medicationsCritical contraindications and family history considerationsThe significance of proper nutrition alongside medication useNavigating dose titration and managing side effects effectivelyLong-term use versus short-term catalysts in weight managementAddressing stigma and misconceptions around medication and lifestyleThe role of genetics and behavioral factors in obesityHow holistic health principles, beyond medications, impact outcomesThe importance of personalized medical guidance Note: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

  2. Jul 14

    "Is European Food Actually Healthier?" | What We Learned from Our Italian Honeymoon

    Send us Fan Mail Travel, Food, and Fitness Insights from a European HoneymoonIn this episode, David and Lara share their recent honeymoon experiences in Italy, providing practical insights on enjoying travel while maintaining health and fitness habits. They dive into the realities of travel, cultural experiences, culinary delights, and how to balance indulgence with staying active. Key Topics:   The value of walking and exploring cities like Rome on foot for a richer experience.  How e-bikes revolutionized touring historical sites like the Appian Way, making exploration effortless and fun.  Authentic Italian food experiences, including favorite restaurants, pizza-making, and wine.  The realities of weight change during European vacations—gaining fat despite high activity levels.  The cultural differences in coffee and bathroom facilities in Italy, and the surprising alcohol consumption habits.  The importance of spontaneous adventures, like hiking to the top of cliffside towns and discovering hidden shops.  Practical tips for vacationers: balancing sightseeing, exercise, and indulgence without stress.  How technology like ChatGPT can aid in trip planning, uncovering unique route options and local gems.  Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Rethinking worry about vacation food and activity 02:15 - Exploring Rome on foot: walking as a way to deeply connect with the city 03:50 - The decision process behind the Italian itinerary including considerations about cruises vs. city stays 05:07 - Highlights of Rome: Vatican, Coliseum, and e-bike tour of the Appian Way 07:56 - Experiencing the Coliseum and watching Gladiator in the hotel 09:37 - Daily routines during travel: balancing heat, naps, and adventures 11:14 - Discovering Rome’s historic sites and hidden gems via e-bikes 13:36 - Exploring the Roman catacombs and aqueducts with engaging local guides 15:41 - Biking through the outskirts of Rome: real estate and local life insights 17:24 - Culinary adventures: pizza, pasta, and authentic Italian dining experiences 19:02 - The significance of classic Italian wines and rooftop dining experiences 21:22 - The luxurious atmosphere of a high-end restaurant and insightful connections with locals 22:49 - The challenges of Europe’s dining hours and bathroom facilities 25:55 - Coffee culture critique and the surprisingly uniform espresso taste in Italy 28:15 - Alcohol consumption habits in Europe versus perceptions of health 30:40 - Touring Sicily: stunning landscapes, Mount Etna, and hidden beaches 36:39 - Shopping streets and local fashion in Teano 37:44 - Climbing to panoramic views and exploring the historic hillside in Tiramina 41:31 - Encounters with fascinating travelers and locals, including a nurse-turned researcher 42:46 - Spontaneous side trips like the Grand Canyon of Sicily and abandoned hiking trails 45:10 - Ending the trip with a luxurious stay in Ortigia, exploring historical towns and fresh seafood 48:54 - Reflecting on the decision fatigue of airport logistics and last-night meals 50:57 - The reality of weight gain despite high activity and healthy eating myths in Europe 52:51 - The truth about European food being more authentic, not necessarily healthier or lower calorie 54:29 - The cultural love for dogs and the fun idea of a “Dogs of Europe” series 55:17 - The benefits of incorporating fitness routines such as running and lifting even during travel 56:41 - Practical advice for balancing travel, food indulgence, exercise, and recovery

  3. Jul 7

    Our Wedding Wasn't Perfect—It Was Better Than That

    Send us Fan Mail We’re back—and officially married! In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our wedding and honeymoon, sharing the moments you'll never see in the photos, the surprises we didn't expect, and the lessons we'll carry into marriage. We talk about what went into planning our wedding, balancing budgets with priorities, the traditions that meant the most to us, and why we believe it's so easy to lose sight of what a wedding is actually about. We also share stories from our honeymoon, what went right, what didn't go exactly as planned, and how those experiences reinforced some important life lessons. Whether you're planning a wedding, newly married, or simply interested in building meaningful relationships, this conversation is about far more than one special day. It's about keeping your values at the center, embracing imperfection, and remembering that the wedding is just the beginning. In this episode: • Our biggest wedding planning lessons • What made our ceremony so meaningful • How we approached our budget and priorities • Funny and unexpected moments from the day • What our honeymoon taught us • Why perfection isn't the goal • The mindset we hope carries us into marriage If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you subscribed, left a review, and shared it with someone preparing for marriage—or simply looking for a reminder that the most meaningful moments in life rarely go exactly according to plan.

  4. Jun 5

    10 Things Your Doctor Wishes You Knew

    Send us Fan Mail Your doctor probably wishes they had more time to say this stuff out loud. In this episode, Dr. Lara Baatenburg joins David to break down ten things physicians wish their patients understood — from why more testing isn't always better, to why your symptoms don't always fit a clean diagnosis, to what a real doctor-patient partnership actually looks like. This is the honest conversation that rarely happens in a 15-minute appointment. And it might change how you show up to your next one. Learn more about Concierge Medicine of West Michigan at cmwestmichigan.com.

  5. May 29

    The Honest List: Top 10 Most Overrated Health Foods

    Send us Fan Mail The health food industry is a multi-billion dollar marketing machine — and most of us have bought something off a shelf because a label said "superfood." In this episode, Dr. Lara and David rank the top 10 most overrated health foods and ask the question that actually matters: does the science hold up? From açaí bowls that are essentially dessert, to alkaline water that does nothing your kidneys aren't already doing, to plant-based meats that swap one problem for three others — this is the honest conversation your grocery cart deserves. You'll learn: Why "healthy" on the label is often the first red flagWhich foods have legitimate benefits that are just wildly oversoldThe simple shift that works better than any superfood ever willIf it needs a marketing campaign to be healthy, that's your first clue. Chapters: 00:00 Unpacking the Health Food Industry 02:03 Top Overrated Health Foods Revealed 03:10 The Açaí Bowl Debate 04:17 The Celery Juice Craze 05:59 Alkaline Water: Myth or Reality? 08:53 The Gluten-Free Misconception 11:26 Coconut Oil: The Saturated Fat Dilemma 12:54 Granola: The Deceptive Health Food 14:42 Kombucha: The Fermented Beverage Debate 16:35 The Truth About Plant-Based Meats 17:56 Fruit Smoothies: Liquid Sugar Dilemma 19:42 Protein Bars: The Overrated Snack 21:31 Takeaways: Rethinking Health Claims

  6. May 22

    “The Lie of Overnight Transformation” | Why Real Health Takes Time

    Send us Fan Mail Summary This episode explores the realities of slow versus rapid transformation in health, fitness, and life, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, realistic expectations, and identity shifts. Hosted by Lara and David, it debunks social media myths and highlights long-term strategies for lasting change. Keywords sustainable health, weight loss, social media myths, long-term transformation, identity shift, medical insights, lifestyle change, patience in health, slow progress, fast results key topics The illusion of overnight transformation and the reality of slow progressThe impact of social media on expectations and motivationThe importance of long-term mindset and sustainability in healthThe role of identity shifts in lasting changeThe limitations of quick fixes and the value of consistent effortSound Bites "Real change takes years""Patience is key to health""Balance taste and health"Chapters 00:00 The Illusion of Overnight Transformation 02:37 The Role of Social Media in Health Perception 05:47 The Dangers of Quick Fixes 08:42 Sustainability vs. Instant Gratification 11:28 The Long Road to Transformation 14:37 Understanding Cardiovascular Health 17:36 The Myth of Detoxing and Quick Fixes 20:40 Accountability in Health and Lifestyle 21:36 Accountability in Healthcare 24:29 Nutrition and Lifestyle Choices 28:42 The Value of Health 31:26 Sustainable Transformation and Identity Shift 36:30 Long-Term Health Strategies

  7. May 15

    “Big Pharma & Your Doctor” : Myths, Money, and Medicine

    Send us Fan Mail Summary This episode explores the complex relationship between physicians and pharmaceutical reps, including the benefits, ethical considerations, and the impact on medical practice. Guests share insights on how pharma influences prescribing habits, the role of samples, and the transparency of financial relationships. This episode offers an inside look into the relationship between doctors and pharmaceutical reps, debunking myths and sharing humorous stories. It covers topics like pharma marketing tactics, conflicts of interest, and the realities of medical practice. Key Topics Pharmaceutical reps and doctor interactions Impact of drug samples on prescribing habits Financial relationships and transparency in healthcare Pharmaceutical marketing tactics Conflicts of interest in medicine Humorous stories about pharma reps Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pharmaceutical Reps in Medicine 02:37 The Role and Influence of Pharmaceutical Representatives 05:37 Experiences with Pharma Reps: The Good and the Bad 08:36 The Impact of Pharma Reps on Patient Care 11:36 Navigating the Pharmaceutical Landscape 14:30 Lifestyle Changes and Medication Management 14:47 The Impact of Lifestyle Changes on Medication 17:29 Pharmaceutical Reps: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly 20:32 Understanding Pharmaceutical Compensation and Its Implications 23:34 Humorous Encounters with Pharmaceutical Reps 27:06 The Science Behind Medication Choices 29:47 Misleading Health Metrics and Technology 31:01 Skepticism Towards Health Technology 32:01 Navigating Pharmaceutical Reps and Their Influence 34:02 The Evolution of Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices 36:01 The OxyContin Crisis and Its Implications 37:59 Perceptions of Pharmaceutical Representatives 40:06 Final Thoughts on Pharma Reps and Their Impact

  8. May 8

    Broken by Design: Why American Healthcare Fails Patients, Doctors, and Everyone In Between

    Send us Fan Mail  Summary In this episode, Dr. Lara and David explore the complexities and frustrations of the American healthcare system, including primary care compensation, insurance challenges, pharmaceutical industry practices, and the impact of lifestyle on health. They aim to shed light on systemic issues and potential solutions, offering a nuanced perspective on healthcare reform. Key Topics Primary care compensation and systemic undervaluing Insurance and prior authorization frustrations Pharmaceutical industry practices and pharma reps Healthcare costs, drug pricing, and PBMs Lifestyle factors and public health challenges Chapters 00:00 The State of American Healthcare 04:50 The Role of Primary Care 10:05 Insurance and Payment Structures 13:54 Health Insurance Alternatives 18:05 The Complexity of Healthcare Costs 19:57 Prior Authorizations and Administrative Burdens 21:46 Navigating Insurance Denials 24:44 The Frustration of Prior Authorizations 27:53 The Cost of Medications and Insurance Dynamics 30:28 The Complexity of American Health Issues 32:50 The Role of Malpractice Insurance 34:40 Drug Pricing and Pharmaceutical Companies 36:58 The Influence of Pharmacy Benefit Managers 39:00 The Impact of Student Loans on Healthcare 41:21 Concluding Thoughts on Healthcare Challenges

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Science Over Hype.  Values Over Virality. Vitals & Values is where evidence-based health meets unapologetic truth. Hosted by Dr. Lara (@lbaat), a concierge MD reshaping modern medicine, and David Roden (@Fit_DRock), a transformation coach who lost over 200 pounds and lived to tell the tale, this podcast isn’t here to go viral—it’s here to tell the truth. Every episode dives deep into: 🧬 Medicine & Metabolic Health🥦 Nutrition & Sustainable Weight Loss🏋️‍♂️ Fitness & Habit Formation✝ Christian Faith & Spiritual Stewardship💭 Mental Health & Lifestyle Resets 📅 Weekly Format: Vitals Check – Clinical clarity from Dr. LaraValues in Focus – Real-world forces behind health: mindset, faith, emotions, relationships, identity, and environmentThe Honest Table – Candid convos & unfiltered guestsThe Real Takeaway – A lifestyle or mindset challenge for the week This isn’t wellness theater. It’s not guru culture. It’s a movement for people who want to think critically, live intentionally, and take their health personally. 🎧 New episodes every Friday 📲 Follow @lbaat & @Fit_DRock on Instagram/TikTok 💼 Brought to you by Concierge Medicine of West Michigan – @cmwestmichiganThe information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your personal physician before making changes to your health routine.

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