Vitals & Values: Concierge Medicine of West Michigan

Concierge Medicine Of West Michigan
  • 5.0 (6)
  • 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. 5d ago

    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

    24 min

  2. 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

    43 min

  3. 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

    44 min

  4. 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

    44 min

  5. May 1

    The Inflammation Lie: And the Truths Worth Keeping

    Send us Fan Mail Summary This episode debunks common myths about inflammation, explores what inflammation really is, and discusses how social media distorts its understanding. David Roden and Dr. Lara clarify misconceptions, review relevant blood markers, and critique influencer claims about inflammation and health. Key  topics What is inflammation? Blood markers for inflammation Myths propagated by social media about inflammation Chapters 00:00 Understanding Inflammation: The Basics 02:30 The Role of Inflammation in Health and Disease 05:41 Inflammation and Weight Loss: Myths vs. Reality 08:37 Lab Tests and Inflammatory Markers: What You Need to Know 11:37 Influencer Narratives: The Misleading Information on Inflammation 14:42 The Bigger Picture: Chronic Inflammation and Disease 17:40 The Influence of Diet on Inflammation 20:35 Big Pharma vs. Big Supplement: A Critical Look 21:05 The Slow Evolution of Medications 22:34 The Cost of New Medications 23:29 The Role of Drug Representatives 25:07 The Misconceptions of Pharmaceutical Profits 26:06 Understanding Inflammation 27:28 Evidence-Based Practices for Health 28:46 The Omega-3 Debate 30:21 The Marketing of Supplements 32:25 The Reality of Omega-3 Supplementation 34:22 The Importance of Clinical Evidence 36:02 Navigating Health Myths 38:09 Final Thoughts on Inflammation

    41 min

  6. Apr 24

    Why Are We So Anxious Right Now?

    Send us Fan Mail  Summary This episode explores the complex factors contributing to rising anxiety and depression rates, examining societal, environmental, and personal influences. Hosted by David Roden, the conversation features insights from Lara, a primary care doctor, and delves into the impact of social media, lifestyle, faith, and community on mental health. Key  Topics Societal and environmental influences on mental health The role of social media and lifestyle in anxiety and depression The impact of faith and community on mental wellbeing Chapters 00:00 Understanding Anxiety and Depression in Today's World 07:29 The Role of Social Media and External Factors 12:11 Physical Health and Mental Well-being 22:58 The Impact of Faith and Purpose on Mental Health 34:45 Contributing Factors and Personal Reflections

    36 min

  7. Apr 17

    The Truth Behind Calories — And Why So Many People Get It Wrong

    Send us Fan Mail  Summary This episode explores the complex science behind calories, how they are measured, and the factors influencing calorie intake and expenditure. It debunks common misconceptions, discusses the impact of food quality, microbiome, and food processing, and offers practical tips for effective weight management. Key  Topics Science of calories and measurement Impact of food quality and processing Role of microbiome and gut health in metabolism Chapters 00:00 Understanding Calories: The Basics 05:33 The Nuances of Calories: Quality vs. Quantity 11:24 The Thermogenic Effect of Food 17:13 The Role of Gut Microbiome in Caloric Absorption 23:12 The Food Industry's Influence on Caloric Perception 28:56 Final Thoughts: Prioritizing Nutrition for Weight Management  Resources Food and Nutrition Science Textbook - https://www.amazon.com/Principles-Nutrition-Melanie-McGrath/dp/1260455294 FDA Food Labeling Regulations - https://www.fda.gov/food/food-labeling-nutrition Gut Microbiome Research Articles - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5622781/ Understanding Calories and Food Labels - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7e4k7k7U4k

    35 min

  8. Apr 3

    Menopause and Hormone Therapy: What Every Woman Needs to Know

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this in-depth interview, Dr. Lisa Larkin discusses the complexities of women's health, menopause, and hormone therapy. She shares insights on the evolution of medical understanding, social media's impact, and the future of personalized care in women's health. Key Topics History and evolution of menopause treatment Impact of social media on women's health perceptions Personalized medicine and concierge care in women's health Chapters 00:00 Understanding Hormones and Menopause 02:41 The Evolution of Women's Health Conversations 05:40 The Impact of Social Media on Menopause Awareness 08:53 The Changing Landscape of Hormone Therapy 11:35 Navigating Risks and Benefits of Hormone Therapy 14:56 The Importance of Individualized Care 17:45 The Role of Data in Hormone Therapy Decisions 20:42 The Future of Women's Health and Hormone Therapy 30:38 Current Studies in Hormonal Therapy 33:01 Understanding Hormone Levels and Patient Care 36:36 Transitioning to Concierge Medicine 40:01 The Role of Direct Primary Care 44:41 Challenges in the Healthcare System 48:34 Testosterone Use in Women 54:39 The Nuances of Hormone Therapy Terminology

    57 min
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About

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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