19 episodes

"Health is more than the absence of disease, so we tackle topics impacting all aspects of your health and wellbeing. Because we trained as doctors together, are dear friends and believe laughter truly is the best medicine, we find joy discussing the profession we love. It’s like being privy to a conversation that you might otherwise never hear; what goes on "behind the curtains,” while providing clarity and insights to complex issues."


Hosted by Professor Jonathan Sackier, a surgeon and Doctor Nigel Guest, a family practitioner, with their 50 years of joint experience in the medical industry they bring you Join the Docs. A blend of fun and facts, empowering our listeners with news they can use to seek the best healthcare.


After training in surgery in Britain, Jonathan was recruited to America to help introduce laparoscopic “keyhole” surgery. He loved caring for patients, teaching, conducting research and sharing his passion for medicine.‍ Patients’ needs inspired Jonathan to help develop several medical inventions, including the first surgical robot and various devices, diagnostics, drugs and services. Always valuing Nigel’s perspectives, their shared love of science and humour, and driven by the social constraints imposed by Covid, Join the Docs was born over many late-night video calls and virtual cocktail hours!


Nigel grew up in Britain’s ‘Black Country’ zealously to his bizarre accent. A Liverpool University educated doctor, he stoically remained in the country’s northwest building a large National Health Service (NHS) General Practice.‍ Motivated by improving patient care, Nigel increasingly became involved with healthcare management, ultimately becoming CEO of a successful and innovative NHS Commissioning Group, overseeing a £350m budget and leading large-scale cancer care and mental health innovations.‍


Driven by a joint love of education and communication, and believing in the therapeutic power of humour, Nigel and Jonathan have come together at Join the Docs to share experiences, educate and hopefully amuse.


Stay happy, stay healthy, as it beats the alternative. You spend a long time dead.


To Contact Us:


For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

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Join the Docs Join the Docs

    • Health & Fitness
    • 5.0 • 4 Ratings

"Health is more than the absence of disease, so we tackle topics impacting all aspects of your health and wellbeing. Because we trained as doctors together, are dear friends and believe laughter truly is the best medicine, we find joy discussing the profession we love. It’s like being privy to a conversation that you might otherwise never hear; what goes on "behind the curtains,” while providing clarity and insights to complex issues."


Hosted by Professor Jonathan Sackier, a surgeon and Doctor Nigel Guest, a family practitioner, with their 50 years of joint experience in the medical industry they bring you Join the Docs. A blend of fun and facts, empowering our listeners with news they can use to seek the best healthcare.


After training in surgery in Britain, Jonathan was recruited to America to help introduce laparoscopic “keyhole” surgery. He loved caring for patients, teaching, conducting research and sharing his passion for medicine.‍ Patients’ needs inspired Jonathan to help develop several medical inventions, including the first surgical robot and various devices, diagnostics, drugs and services. Always valuing Nigel’s perspectives, their shared love of science and humour, and driven by the social constraints imposed by Covid, Join the Docs was born over many late-night video calls and virtual cocktail hours!


Nigel grew up in Britain’s ‘Black Country’ zealously to his bizarre accent. A Liverpool University educated doctor, he stoically remained in the country’s northwest building a large National Health Service (NHS) General Practice.‍ Motivated by improving patient care, Nigel increasingly became involved with healthcare management, ultimately becoming CEO of a successful and innovative NHS Commissioning Group, overseeing a £350m budget and leading large-scale cancer care and mental health innovations.‍


Driven by a joint love of education and communication, and believing in the therapeutic power of humour, Nigel and Jonathan have come together at Join the Docs to share experiences, educate and hopefully amuse.


Stay happy, stay healthy, as it beats the alternative. You spend a long time dead.


To Contact Us:


For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs
Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs
Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs
Follow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocs
Follow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs

    From A to K - The ABCs (and Ds, Es, and Ks) of Vitamins

    From A to K - The ABCs (and Ds, Es, and Ks) of Vitamins

    Welcome to the latest gut-busting episode of Join The Docs where the hilariously erudite Doctor Nigel Guest and the ever-witty surgeon Professor Jonathan Sackier tackle the subject of vitamins,where the humour cuts deeper than a surgeon's knife, and the topics are as enriching as a nutrition-packed smoothie! 

    Prepare to be operated on with laughter as they dissect the bewildering world of vitamins with the precision of a laser-guided scalpel. Professor Sackier, endeavouring  to be erudite in the face of Doctor Guest’s snipes, kicks things off by unravelling the A, B, Cs (and Ds, Es, and Ks) of vitamins, while Dr. Guest chimes in with anecdotes about patients 

    Orange you glad you took the right vitamins today? As they delve deeper, The Docs tackle the heavyweight question of the century: Can you really overdose on vitamins? Dr. Guest recounts the A-mazing tale of a man who turned orange after consuming carrot juice. They both agree that while vitamins are essential, turning into a human carrot is not advisable. And while polar bears might be yummy, you might want to avoid their liver…with or without onions!

    Why should you chat with your doc? The dynamic duo doesn't stop there; they serve up a generous helping of advice on why you should chat with your doc before popping pills like candy. They share a chuckle over the image of a patient consulting Dr. Google, only to end up on a diet of nothing but kale and sunshine - not a bright idea.

    Speaking of sunshine, how important is it for your body to whip up that sweet, sweet vitamin D? Professor Sackier quips about his own sunbathing adventures, which involve more sunscreen than a beach party for vampires. That’s one way to feel D-light.

    Do you follow  the hype surrounding dietary supplements? Before stitching up this episode, they address the elephant in the room: the myths surrounding dietary supplements. The Docs reference studies that suggest you might not live forever just because you eat vitamins like they're popcorn, despite what that infomercial with the shouting man might say.

    As the laughter subsides, they wrap up with a heartfelt plea for listeners to join the conversation, share their own funny vitamin stories, or ask questions that have been nagging them like a persistent mother-in-law.
    So, if you're ready for a dose of education with a side of chuckles, tune in to Join The Docs – the only podcast where you can improve your health knowledge without a prescription!
    —--
    DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
    We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
    To Contact Us: 

    For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

    Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

    Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

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    • 31 min
    In Treble? John Oates Joins the Docs

    In Treble? John Oates Joins the Docs

    This key-rrific episode of Join The Docs features the ever-curious Professor Jonathan Sackier flying solo, sitting down without his usual sidekick Doctor Nigel Guest who is taking his own medicine and having a holiday.. This time, he's joined by the legendary John Oates. Yes, you heard it right—John Oates, the moustached marvel from the iconic duo Hall & Oates. Not only is he in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but he's also a multi-talented musician, songwriter, and all-around cool guy. They sit down to talk all things music and medicine, with a hint of laughter.

    What sparks the conversation? Oates, dives straight into the nitty-gritty of his sixth solo album,  “Reunion." This isn't just any album. Inspired by a whirlwind of personal life events, "Reunion" is a rollercoaster of emotions, melodies, and collaborations with some of the music industry's finest. Oates regales us with tales of  jam sessions, spontaneous songwriting when the radar is alerted by life events - check out the story of a girl in cowboy boots and a pink tutu!At the heart of the episode, the emotional story behind the album's title track. Oates opens up about his ageing father, painting a vivid picture of a man who has seen it all and then some. The song is a poignant reflection on life's horizons, filled with realisations that hit harder than a double espresso on a Monday morning. Oates' storytelling is so vivid, you can almost see the twinkle in his father's eye and feel the weight of the years gone by.

    What’s Oates’ secret to maintaining his vocal health? John shares his secret weapons, gargling, humidity, yoga and not talking to our resident Professor!. And let's not forget the physical challenges he's faced—two rotator cuff surgeries, folks! Oates recounts the gruelling physical therapy sessions with a humour that makes you almost wish you were there, cheering him on from the sidelines. Hip Hop, Hooray!

    Wait a minuet!  Why is the healing power of music so important to Oates? To rap it up, Oates passionately discusses how strumming a guitar or belting out a tune can mend a broken spirit faster than any doctor-prescribed remedy. Oates means treble, emphasising the importance of physical therapy post-surgery, sharing anecdotes of his therapist who, according to Oates, has the hands of an angel and the motivational skills of a drill sergeant. He also tells us of the people he has  worked with, a veritable who’s who of the music business. And talking of Who, his recent duet with Roger Daltrey was to help those living with teen cancer.
    —--
    DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
    We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
    To Contact Us: 

    For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

    Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

    Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs

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    So, why should you buckle up and get ready for a wild ride? This episode of Join The Docs is filled with laughter, tears, and a whole lot of rock and roll wisdom. This episode is not one to miss, it’s hitting all the right notes – from heartstrings to guitar strings! And careful listeners could win a special prize identifying surreptitious song titles hidden in the episode….

    • 1 hr 2 min
    Aged to Perfection: Growing Old - It Beats the Alternative!

    Aged to Perfection: Growing Old - It Beats the Alternative!

    In this rollicking episode of Join The Docs,  our esteemed gerontology gurus, Dr. Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier, dive headfirst into the laughter lines of the ageing population. They don't just skim the surface; they go deep, exploring the socio-economic implications of a world where the average age keeps increasing.

    What is the impact of ageing on the community? As they dissect the burden on society and the economy, they don't just give it to you straight – they serve it up with a side of laugh-out-loud old fashioned humour. Dr. Guest and Professor Sackier don't just offer recommendations for maintaining health in the golden years; they provide the blueprint to become a silver fox or vixen!

    What can you expect? The Docs cover the gamut, from the critical importance of regular health check-ups – because let's face it, your body is starting to have more issues than a celebrity gossip magazine – to the art of foot care, which is less about pedicures and more about making sure your toes don't look like they've walked through the Middle Ages.

    Napping isn't just for toddlers anymore, folks. Why is it so important? Our dynamic duo explains why catching some Z's in the afternoon can be the secret ingredient for graceful ageing. And when it comes to maintaining good hearing and eyesight, it’s more than just eating  your carrots and avoiding loud noises…

    Is sex good for old bones? Hold onto your dentures, because The Docs also highlight the unexpected benefits of sexual activity for health, and let's just say they don't beat around the bush. They also tackle the dangers of smoking,  and stress the need for mental stimulation – because your brain needs a workout too, and no, watching soap operas doesn't count.

    It’s okay not to be okay. Dr. Guest and Professor Sackier then move onto the importance of seeking help and taking care of your mental health, no matter your age. They discuss how maintaining a positive mental state is crucial for enjoying a fulfilling and active life in your later years.

    Combining sage advice with a barrel of laughs, this episode is a guide to ageing like a fine cheese – slightly stinky but ultimately a delicacy. Tune in, laugh out loud, and smile with your teeth (whilst you’ve still got them).
    —--
    DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
    We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
    To Contact Us: 

    For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

    Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

    Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs

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    • 27 min
    Fake Diseases - Sickness or Silliness?

    Fake Diseases - Sickness or Silliness?

    Welcome, dear listeners, to the newest episode of Join The Docs with your favourite medical history buff, Professor Jonathan Sackier, and the ever-erudite Doctor Nigel Guest. Today, with a few sick jokes along the way, they're diving head first into the wild world of diseases, both the bone-a-fide and the baloney!

    What is the strangest disease you've never heard of? Professor Sackier starts things off with a dramatic reading from the Encyclopaedia of Obscure Ailments, setting the stage for a journey through the annals of ail-ment and ail-mess nomenclature. Dr. Guest observes that fake disease merchants have got it in for him....or did he mean in for me?

    As The Docs dissect the classification and history of diseases, the duo emphasises the absolute, unassailable, and sometimes comically complex importance of precise medical terminology. They regale us with tales of conditions so rare that they might as well be unicorn illnesses. Not that unicorns have ever visited Dr.  Guest's practice, but our Professor definitely believes they exist!

    Can you tell the difference between a real disease and a fake one? The conversation takes a turn for the surreal as they explore the distinction between real and fake diseases. Professor Sackier warns of the dangers of faux maladies, dramatically pausing before revealing the notorious "mauve factor disease," which he insists is not just a purple patch in medical history.

    Have you ever heard of "Paranoia About Paranoia"? Dr. Guest chimes in with a cautionary tale about this condition that has patients obsessively washing their hands. The two marvel at the absurdity but soberly remind us of the necessity of evidence-based medicine.

    How do fake diseases affect real patients? As they wrap up, our hosts underscore the ethical responsibility of healthcare professionals to steer clear of endorsing the medical equivalent of urban legends. The Docs paint a vivid picture of the potential harm to patients, with Professor Sackier lamenting the rise of "Therapeutic Tarot Reading" and Dr. Guest bemoaning the latest fad, "Quantum Healing Crystals." Well, maybe not that extreme -  but do listen all the way through!
    To finish The Docs urge listeners to stay informed, stay sceptical, and, above all, to keep laughing. And remember, if you ever find yourself getting paranoid about the diseases you think you may have, don't hesitate to see a medical professional. They’ll set you straight.
    —--
    DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
    We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
    To Contact Us: 

    For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

    Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

    Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocs
    Follow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs

    • 33 min
    Problems Peeing? - Urine Trouble

    Problems Peeing? - Urine Trouble

    Have you ever laughed so hard you almost peed yourself? In this uproariously informative episode of Join The Docs, the ever-witty Professor Jonathan Sackier and the hilariously insightful Doctor Nigel Guest dive deep into the riveting world of pee-ology. With the chemistry of a classic comedy duo, they embark on a fluid journey through the golden streams of urination and urinary health.

    Is your pee the perfect shade? The episode kicks off with a vibrant discussion on the Pantone scale of pee, where our hosts illuminate the hidden messages within the hue of your loo. Professor Sackier explains that a dark amber urine might just mean you've been hitting the gym a little too hard. Doctor Guest chimes in with a chuckle, reminding us that while "sweating it out" is great, turning your toilet bowl into a dark ale tasting session is not.

    Think drinking water is boring? Think again!  The Docs then prescribe the magic elixir of life—good ol' H2O. Downing about eight glasses a day, they say, is the secret to keeping your personal plumbing in tip-top shape. But beware, as alcohol and caffeine will dry you out one sip at a time. Professor Sackier quips that if you're reaching for that fourth espresso or considering turning happy hour into happy hours, urine trouble…

    Urinary tract infections are no laughing matter; Doctor Guest regales us with tales of the female urinary tract, a heroine in its own right, battling the dastardly bacteria that dare to trespass. They discuss how the shorter urethra is like a VIP express lane for unwanted microbial party crashers, leading to cystitis.

    Ready for symptoms and causes of bladder inflammation with a twist? Doctor Guest recounts the time he diagnosed a bladder infection in a woman who thought she was just "angry peeing."

    By the end of this pee-centric podcast episode, you'll not only be thoroughly entertained but also equipped with the knowledge to keep your urinary tract as happy as ever. So, tune in, have a laugh, and remember: when it comes to urinary health, it's better to be safe than sorry, and definitely better to be hydrated than high and dry!
    —--
    DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
    We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
    To Contact Us: 

    For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

    Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

    Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocs
    Follow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs

    • 44 min
    Cardiac Arrest - A Glenn Hoddle Heart to Heart

    Cardiac Arrest - A Glenn Hoddle Heart to Heart

    We’re pumped to bring you this heart-stopping instalment of Join the Docs, where our intrepid hosts, the ever-eloquent Professor Jonathan Sackier and the delightfully droll Doctor Nigel Guest, discuss cardiac arrest. With their trademark blend of wit and wisdom, they dissect the causes of this heart-stopping phenomenon and the absolutely crucial role of CPR and defibrillators in ‘staying alive’.

    Anyone a football fan? Joining them is none other than the football legend Glenn Hoddle, who recounts his own tale of survival. Picture this: one minute, he's fine, the next, he's floored by a cardiac arrest, saved by the swift actions of a quick-thinking bystander with CPR magic in their hands. It's a story so gripping, you'll need to remind yourself to breathe!

    You can heart-ly believe your eyes! As our hosts expertly navigate the treacherous waters of cardiac troubles, they illuminate the stark differences between the sneak-attack of a cardiac arrest and the slow-burn drama of a heart attack. The Docs also introduce the catchy and life-saving mnemonic "5 H's and 5 T's," which sounds like a dance move but could actually help you save a life. You aorta listen!

    But what can you do? Professor Sackier and Doctor Guest, in their infinite jest, remind us that laughter might be the best medicine, but regular health check-ups are a close second. But it’s not all in vein - The Docs champion the superhero potential in all of us through the power of CPR, turning each listener into a potential heart-throb hero.
    So, strap in for an episode that's equal parts educational, entertaining, and utterly exhilarating. Remember with Join the Docs, you're in for a heart-racing good time, and who knows? You might just learn to save a life.
    —--
    DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
    We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
    To Contact Us: 

    For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

    Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

    Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs

    Follow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocs
    Follow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs

    • 49 min

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