The Health Exchange

Episode 63 of The Health Exchange Podcast examines endometriosis with guest Dr. Mallory Stuparich, a gynecologist and endometriosis specialist who diagnoses and treats the condition. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Stuparich discuss what endometriosis actually is—an inflammatory disease where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus—and why it so often goes undiagnosed for years. The conversation explores how symptoms like severe menstrual pain, pelvic pain, fatigue, and infertility are frequently dismissed as “normal,” leaving many patients to struggle without answers. They also break down how the disease is evaluated and treated, from advanced imaging to excision surgery, while highlighting the limitations of common approaches like birth control alone. Throughout the episode, Dr. Stuparich emphasizes the importance of listening to patients, recognizing red flags early, and empowering individuals to advocate for themselves in a medical system that has historically overlooked chronic pelvic pain.

Episode 62 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores testosterone, hormone optimization, and the evolving field of longevity medicine with guest Christopher Asandra, MD, a physician specializing in anti-aging. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Asandra unpack how testosterone functions at the cellular level, why symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, low libido, and mood shifts matter more than a single lab number, and how individualized treatment can restore energy, muscle mass, and overall quality of life. The conversation tackles common misconceptions about therapy, safety concerns surrounding cardiovascular risk and overprescribing, the importance of proper monitoring, and how fertility factors into treatment decisions. Beyond hormones, the episode broadens into the difference between lifespan and healthspan, examining how sleep, resistance training, nutrition, inflammation, and lifestyle habits intersect with hormone balance to shape long-term vitality. Throughout, Dr. Asandra shares both clinical insights and personal experience, emphasizing a tailored, evidence-informed approach to helping patients not just live longer, but live better.

Episode 61 of The Health Exchange Podcast tells the powerful story of Kahley Schiller, founder of Pilates by Kahley, who at 39 years old was given just 90 days to live after being diagnosed with acute liver failure caused by autoimmune hepatitis. What began as subtle fatigue and nausea quickly escalated to jaundice, an ICU admission, and the realization that a liver transplant was her only chance at survival. Dr. Rutland walks through the science of how the immune system can mistakenly attack the liver, while Kahley shares the emotional reality of waiting for an organ—knowing her life depended on another family’s loss. The conversation explores the physical deterioration of liver failure, the complications she endured during transplant surgery including blood clots and strokes, and the often-overlooked mental health challenges that follow survival. From advocating for herself when symptoms were dismissed to rebuilding her strength through movement and faith, Kahley reflects on resilience, grief, gratitude, and what it truly means to carry someone else’s legacy while navigating life after transplant.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 60 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into the overlooked and often misunderstood world of women’s pelvic health with guest Dr. Maria Uloko, a urologist and pelvic health expert. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Uloko explore why conditions like pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence, recurrent UTIs, and hormonally mediated vestibular pain are frequently misdiagnosed or underrecognized. They discuss how hormonal changes, inflammation, and pelvic muscle health intersect to affect comfort, urinary function, and overall well-being. The conversation also examines the cultural and educational gaps that have historically neglected female health, while highlighting practical interventions—from hormone therapies to pelvic floor therapy—that can restore function and quality of life. This episode emphasizes the importance of listening to patients, validating their pain, and empowering them with knowledge and options for care.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 59 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the demanding and deeply human world of pediatric neurosurgery with guest Tony Adkins, PA-C, who works on the front lines helping children and families navigate some of the most overwhelming diagnoses imaginable. Dr. Rutland and Tony discuss what pediatric neurosurgery really looks like day to day—from emergency calls and operating room care to the emotional weight of delivering life-altering news to parents. The conversation breaks down complex conditions like hydrocephalus, brain tumors, and neural tube defects in clear, accessible terms, while highlighting the critical role physician associates play as translators between medical teams and families. Beyond the medicine, Tony shares how empathy, humility, and even dance have become tools for connection, helping reduce fear and build trust in moments of crisis. The episode ultimately underscores the balance between science and compassion, and what it takes to care for children while carrying the emotional realities of the work.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 58 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the powerful connection between oral health, overall wellness, and personal confidence with guest Dr. Bill Dorfman, a leading cosmetic dentist. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Dorfman discuss how the mouth often serves as an early window into systemic health, touching on inflammation, cardiovascular risk, immune function, and chronic disease. The conversation breaks down common dental procedures—such as bonding, veneers, crowns, implants, and root canals—while emphasizing a conservative, patient-centered approach focused on restoring function before aesthetics. Beyond clinical care, Dr. Dorfman shares how dental treatment can profoundly impact confidence, mental well-being, and quality of life, drawing from decades of experience, including transformative patient stories and work with complex congenital conditions. The episode also highlights the importance of collaboration between dentists and physicians, early disease detection, and removing fear and stigma from dental care, reinforcing that oral health is not cosmetic—it is foundational to whole-body health.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 57 of The Health Exchange Podcast goes inside the fast-paced, high-stakes world of the emergency department with guest Dr. Italo Brown, an emergency medicine physician. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Brown explore what it really takes to navigate the chaos of trauma, critical care, and high-acuity patients, while balancing technical skill, rapid decision-making, and deep compassion. They discuss the realities behind life-saving procedures, the emotional highs and lows of patient outcomes, and the importance of communication and teamwork in the E.R. The conversation also touches on challenges like managing chronic conditions, understanding complex respiratory and cardiovascular cases, and providing care for vulnerable populations. Beyond the medicine, Dr. Brown highlights the human side of emergency care—staying present with patients and families, mentoring trainees, and coping with the emotional weight of loss—offering listeners an honest, unfiltered look at what it means to work on the front lines of healthcare.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 56 of The Health Exchange Podcast examines how autoimmune disease care is evolving when advanced medicine is paired with lifestyle-based intervention. Host Dr. Rutland speaks with Drs. Melissa Mondala and Micah Yu, a married physician team who combine rheumatology, lifestyle, and integrative medicine in their practice. They share their personal journeys—Micah’s own autoimmune diagnosis and Melissa’s early patient experiences—that shaped their approach to care. The conversation covers how autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus affect energy, mood, and overall health, and why assessment of diet, sleep, stress, and environment is critical alongside advanced medications. Through real patient stories, they illustrate how combining biologics with lifestyle changes—plant-forward diets, stress management, and movement—can improve symptoms, reduce medication needs, and empower patients to reclaim control over their health.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 55 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into the science, stigma, and real-world impact of migraines with neurologist Dr. Philip O’Carroll and pain management specialist Dr. Richard Paicius. Dr. Rutland leads a wide-ranging conversation on why migraines are not “just headaches,” but complex neurological and inflammatory events shaped by genetics, hormones, brain signaling, and lived experience. The episode explores how migraines are misdiagnosed, why women are disproportionately affected, and how central nervous system sensitization, trauma, and emotional stress can drive chronic pain. From breakthrough CGRP medications and Botox to nerve blocks and emerging psychedelic therapies, the doctors explain how modern, precision-based treatments are transforming care—while emphasizing that empathy, accurate diagnosis, and coordinated, whole-person treatment remain just as critical as the science.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 54 of The Health Exchange Podcast features interventional cardiologist Priya Rao Kothapalli in a wide‑ranging conversation about what really determines heart health — from emergency procedures that save lives in minutes to the invisible forces that shape disease over decades. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Rao explore how heart attacks happen, how blocked arteries and faulty valves are treated in the cath lab, and why technologies like transcatheter valve replacement and intravascular imaging have transformed modern cardiology. They also dive into the concept of “vulnerable plaque,” showing why heart attacks often come from hidden inflammation rather than obvious blockages, and how new blood markers and cardiac imaging can identify risk long before symptoms appear. Beyond procedures and lab values, the episode emphasizes prevention, stress, genetics, and personalized care — reframing heart disease not just as a plumbing problem, but as a lifelong, whole‑body process shaped by biology, environment, and how people live.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Films:instagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 53 of The Health Exchange Podcast features urologist and men’s health specialist Dr. Rena Malik in a candid, evidence-based conversation about what really drives men’s intimate wellness. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Malik explore how male function is shaped by hormones, blood flow, nerves, and psychology, why issues like performance difficulties and early climax can be early warning signs of deeper health concerns, and how treatments range from simple lifestyle adjustments to medications, devices, and injections. The episode also dives into prostate health, including BPH, prostatitis, PSA screening, and when to be concerned about prostate cancer, while connecting these topics to overall quality of life, relationships, and aging. Beyond the biology, Dr. Malik speaks openly about communication, desire in long-term partnerships, and why men are often taught to suffer in silence — reframing male wellness not as performance, but as a vital part of feeling connected, confident, and alive.Follow Our Host:instagram.com/drjrutlandProduced by Born Ready Filmsinstagram.com/bornreadyfilms

Episode 52 of The Health Exchange Podcast takes a deep dive into foot health and why the feet are far more connected to overall wellness than most people realize, featuring board-certified podiatrist Dr. Ebonie Vincent-Sleet. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Vincent-Sleet explore how biomechanics, genetics, footwear, and daily habits influence everything from chronic pain and athletic performance to long-term conditions like diabetes. The conversation breaks down common but misunderstood issues such as bunions, flat feet, ankle instability, diabetic ulcers, and fungal infections, while emphasizing prevention, early intervention, and conservative care before surgery. Along the way, Dr. Vincent-Sleet shares patient stories that highlight podiatry’s unique blend of technical precision and deeply personal impact, touching on athlete recovery, pediatric foot development, sneaker culture, and even holistic concepts like grounding. The episode ultimately reframes foot care as foundational medicine—critical not just for mobility, but for quality of life across every stage of health.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

Episode 51 of The Health Exchange Podcast features board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tia Paul, who joins Dr. Rutland for a wide-ranging conversation on skin health, acne, lasers, and the realities of modern dermatology. The episode explores how different laser technologies actually work, why choosing the wrong treatment can cause serious harm—especially for patients with darker skin—and how individuals can better advocate for themselves when seeking cosmetic or medical procedures. Dr. Paul breaks down acne as a chronic medical condition influenced by hormones, stress, lifestyle, and skin type, discussing treatment options from over-the-counter products to Accutane and biologics. The discussion also tackles skincare misinformation fueled by social media, the rise of influencer and celebrity brands, and the limitations of product regulation. This episode offers a grounded, patient-centered look at what healthy skin really means and how thoughtful care can change lives.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

Episode 50 of The Health Exchange Podcast features allergist and immunologist Dr. Malika Gupta, MD, who brings clarity to the confusing and often frustrating world of allergies. She and Dr. Rutland discuss why symptoms can flare at unexpected times, how to tell the difference between seasonal and year-round triggers, and what actually happens inside the immune system during an allergic response. Dr. Gupta explains the strengths and limitations of skin testing and blood work, emphasizing how accurate diagnosis depends just as much on patient history as on lab results. She also breaks down when treatments like antihistamines, nasal steroids, and immunotherapy are truly helpful — and when they’re not. Practical and highly accessible, this episode gives listeners a clearer path to understanding their symptoms and finding lasting, personalized relief.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

Episode 49 of The Health Exchange Podcast breaks down the childhood vaccine schedule with pediatrician Dr. Lori Livingston, who explains what each shot protects against, why the timing matters, and how vaccines prevent not just illness but hospitalizations and long-term complications. Dr. Livingston walks listeners through the early series (hepatitis B, DTaP, polio, Hib, pneumococcal, rotavirus), the important one-year and preteen boosters (MMR, varicella, Tdap, meningococcal, HPV), and respiratory protections parents should watch for each season — including influenza, COVID-19, and the new RSV tools (maternal vaccination and infant monoclonal antibodies). The conversation balances science with real-world examples — from rotavirus wards cleared after vaccine rollout to the resurgence risks of measles and polio — while addressing common parental concerns, myths (especially around HPV and vaccine safety), and practical tips for making shots easier for kids.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

Episode 48 of The Health Exchange Podcast features an intimate and powerful conversation with Patty Jo, who shares her journey as a single mother navigating career pressures, personal challenges, and the realities of raising two sons through adversity. The episode traces her path from an unconventional childhood overseas to parenting amid instability, addiction, ADHD, and the pursuit of law school, all while relying on extended family during medical and emotional crises. Through humorous memories, difficult truths, and hard-won lessons, the conversation highlights how love, structure, and determination shaped her family’s trajectory and the men her sons ultimately became.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

Episode 47 of The Health Exchange Podcast tells the extraordinary story of Dr. Gary Gibbon, a pulmonologist who became a patient himself through a landmark dual lung and liver transplant. Dr. Rutland speaks with him about the unique challenges of transitioning from doctor to patient, how vulnerability reshaped his perspective on care, and the lessons he learned from the transplant team that treated him like family. The conversation also explores how Dr. Gibbon’s own medical knowledge allowed him to recognize his symptoms early, guiding him to seek care that ultimately led to his life-saving dual transplant. The episode explores resilience, advocacy, and the power of patient-centered care, offering insights not just for medical professionals but anyone navigating the healthcare system.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

#sponsored #sanofi_partner Episode 46 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the challenges inherent in shared decision-making about risk assessment and screening. This discussion with Robin Arzón—who was diagnosed in her 30s—explores strategies for fostering awareness and timely action, breaks down the potential misconceptions that could be swirling, and highlights why early screening and early understanding is important. Dr. Rutland and Robin unpack why a T1D diagnosis doesn't have to start with symptoms and discuss @TZIELD (teplizumab-mzwv), a prescription medication that can delay the onset of Stage 3 T1D in patients 8 years and older with Stage 2 diabetes. With humor and determination that are quintessential to Robin’s can-do fitness attitude, this episode celebrates the ability of patients and caregivers to face the challenges of T1D and shares strategies HCPs can use with their patients.I've been engaged by Sanofi to raise awareness of TZIELD as well as highlight the importance of taking action to screen and monitor for T1D. There's more we can do to support and advocate for patients who may be at risk of T1D. Check out https://bit.ly/475fP1M for more info!As with any treatment, it’s important to understand the potential adverse reactions with TZIELD. Greater incidences of cytokine release syndrome, serious infections, hypersensitivity reactions and serum sickness, lymphopenia, and neutropenia were reported in TZIELD-treated patients vs placebo-treated patients. Most common adverse reactions (>10%) were lymphopenia, rash, leukopenia, and headache. TZIELD may also interfere with immune response to vaccination and decrease vaccine efficacy. These are not all the adverse reactions reported with TZIELD.Please see full Important Safety Information here https://bit.ly/44nc0TS, and Prescribing Information here https://bit.ly/3IbU9Xn.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/MAT-US-2508671-v1.0-10/2025

Episode 45 of The Health Exchange Podcast looks at resilience, recovery, and the evolving science of orthopedic care with guest Dr. Steve Mora, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports-medicine specialist. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Mora dig into how modern orthopedics blends mechanics with biology — from PRP, stem-cell and fat-based therapies to peptides and tailored anesthesia — and why metabolic health, sleep, and movement matter as much as the scalpel. Drawing on stories from UFC fighters to an Olympic athlete he helped return to gold, the conversation balances high-level sports medicine with everyday guidance for anyone facing pain or injury: prevention, realistic recovery expectations, and practical steps to keep moving well for life.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/

Episode 44 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives deep into the science and emotion behind fertility with guest Dr. Sasha Hackman, a reproductive endocrinologist who blends expertise with lived experience. From the realities of IVF and egg freezing to the myths that cloud public understanding, Dr. Hackman explains how hormones, sleep, and stress intertwine with fertility outcomes and why personalized care matters more than one-size-fits-all advice. She opens up about her own infertility journey, offering rare insight into the emotional toll, resilience, and empathy that shape her work today. This conversation shines a light on the complex, deeply human side of reproductive medicine—balancing data, hope, and heart in every patient’s path to parenthood.Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron through an unrestricted educational grant.https://www.instagram.com/thehealthexchangepodcast/Follow Our Host:https://www.instagram.com/drjrutland/