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. 2d ago

    10 Health Mistakes We Made Trying to Be Healthy

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, David and Lara share their personal health journeys and debunk common myths about nutrition, sleep, and fitness. They emphasize the importance of humility, adaptability, and understanding science to make sustainable health choices.  Key  Topics Personal health journeys and lessons learned The teachability index and willingness to change Common misconceptions about sleep, supplements, and diet The role of carbs, fasting, and calorie intake in health The importance of humility and adaptability in health choices  Sound Bites "I've almost taken away almost every single supplement" "Running is not the only way to stay healthy" "Eating less isn't always the answer" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to common health misconceptions 02:02 Personal health journeys and lessons learned 04:10 The myth of supplements and whole foods 06:21 Undervaluing sleep and its impact 09:06 The truth about water intake and overhydration 12:25 The evolution of running and exercise habits 14:36 Myth of low carb diets and carbs as fuel 17:02 The dangers of restrictive eating and cheat days 19:18 Fasting, intermittent fasting, and their misconceptions 22:30 The obsession with eating less and body image 27:09 Health is not solely determined by weight 28:18 Embracing humility and continuous learning in health

  2. Aug 4

    The Testosterone Boom: Who Actually Needs TRT?

    Send us Fan Mail People are talking about testosterone more than ever—but who actually needs it? In this episode of Vitals & Values, David shares his personal six-month experience on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) while Dr. Treisenberg separates science from social media. Together they discuss:  The real symptoms of low testosterone  Why so many younger men are seeing lower testosterone levels  Who should (and shouldn't) consider TRT  How testosterone affects energy, mood, muscle, libido, and mental health  Fertility concerns every younger man needs to understand  The truth about heart disease and prostate cancer risks  Injection vs. cream vs. pellet therapy  How doctors safely monitor testosterone therapy  Whether estrogen blockers are actually necessary  The growing popularity of peptides like BPC-157 and what the evidence really shows Whether you're simply curious about testosterone or actively considering treatment, this episode offers an evidence-based discussion designed to help you make informed decisions instead of following internet trends. Low testosterone is diagnosed using both symptoms and lab work.  Free testosterone often matters more than total testosterone.   TRT isn't appropriate for every man.   Lifestyle changes should accompany hormone therapy.   Testosterone can improve energy, mood, muscle mass, libido, and quality of life for the right patient.   Fertility is an essential discussion before starting TRT.   Regular blood work is critical during treatment.   Heart disease and prostate cancer fears are often overstated when therapy is appropriately monitored.   Injection therapy tends to be the most reliable delivery method.   Pellets and creams have important limitations.   Estrogen management should be individualized—not automatic.   Not everyone responds dramatically to testosterone.   Peptides remain promising but are still an evolving area of medicine.   Evidence should always outweigh testimonials.

  3. Jul 28

    Understanding the Pelvic Floor: Insights from a Pelvic Floor PT with Kelly Ruther

    Send us Fan Mail Understanding the Pelvic Floor: Insights from a Pelvic Floor PT.  This episode dives into the complexities of the pelvic floor, debunking myths and explaining its vital role through visual analogies and expert insights. Perfect for those curious about pelvic health, whether for personal knowledge or clinical application. Main Topics Covered:   The pelvic floor as a supportive system, likened to a trampoline, emphasizing interconnectedness  Differences and similarities in pelvic health concerns for men and women, highlighting the importance of inclusive treatment  Common dysfunctions, symptoms, and the importance of holistic treatment rather than isolated exercises  Role of diaphragm, core, and posture in pelvic health, with visualizations for better understanding  The significance of early intervention, especially during pregnancy, to prevent long-term issues  Safe assessment practices and the role of internal vs. external evaluations  Effective treatment approaches including neuroplasticity, movement retraining, and functional exercises  Addressing misconceptions about pelvic health and the limitations of simple solutions like Kegels  The importance of addressing systemic factors over isolated muscle training    Note: For those seeking to understand pelvic health holistically, this episode emphasizes systemic treatment, movement, and addressing misconceptions, particularly highlighting the importance of early intervention and personalized care.

  4. Jul 21

    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.

  5. 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

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. 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

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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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