Medicine In America

Introducing Medicine in America: Patient Stories. These episodes share powerful journeys with patients and families who find ways to get the care they deserve. When veteran journalist Michael Kaplan, author of Advantage Players, was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer, he used his reporter’s instincts to beat the odds. Known for his career covering professional poker players and high-stakes gamblers for outlets like The New York Times and Vanity Fair, Kaplan turned those same investigative skills on his diagnosis. In this inspiring Medicine in America: Patient Stories episode, he shares how a combination of journalism and advantage-play strategy led him to an optimal, non-chemo treatment for stage-four mantle cell lymphoma with no known cure. Today, Kaplan has zero evidence of cancer cells in his blood. To learn more about Michael Kaplan and purchase his new book: Advantage Players: Advantage Players

In this bonus 5-minute episode of Medicine in America, host Anthony Manson speaks with Lynn Richardson-Godfrey, SVP & Chief Experience Officer at Blood Cancer United, about the organization’s powerful rebrand. Formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the new name reflects a broader mission: to serve all blood cancer patients, families, and caregivers. Learn why inclusivity matters, what the change represents, and how Blood Cancer United continues its fight to improve lives and find cures.

Hoang(Mai) Pham, MD, MPH—President and CEO of the Institute for Exceptional Care and former Chief Innovation Officer at Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services—joins us to discuss the urgent need to fix how our healthcare system serves people with autism and other developmental disabilities. Drawing from her personal experience as a mother and her professional expertise in health policy, Dr. Pham shares candid, actionable advice for caregivers: how to find the right doctors, navigate fragmented services, and advocate effectively—especially amid recent Medicaid cuts. We also explore trauma, abuse risks, life transitions, and promising tech solutions. An essential listen for families, clinicians, and changemakers alike.

GLP-1s are rewriting the rules of weight loss. In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Melanie Jay, MD, MS, a nationally recognized obesity specialist and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, to answer the questions everyone is asking, "What do GLP-1s really do? Who should take them and who shouldn’t? What are the risks of “cosmetic” use? And can these drugs actually extend your lifespan? We get into the real-world issues people aren’t talking about enough: online prescribing without proper screening, side effects and long-term unknowns in healthy users, and why success often depends on medical counseling, follow-up, and lifestyle support, not just a prescription. If you’re considering GLP-1s, already taking one, or treating patients who ask about them daily, this episode is your hype filter. To learn more about Dr Melanie Jay click here or to hear her TED Talk

Guest: Dr Jessica Justman In this episode of Medicine in America, host Anthony Manson explores how to prevent the next pandemic and the vital role vaccines play in protecting global health. Joining him is Dr. Jessica Justman, a renowned infectious disease expert and epidemiologist, who shares insights on the resurgence of mpox, advancements in vaccine technology, and lessons learned from past pandemics like COVID-19 and HIV. From understanding vaccine distribution challenges to the importance of global collaboration, this conversation highlights what healthcare professionals and policymakers must do to safeguard against future outbreaks. Don’t miss this thought-provoking and timely discussion! If you would like more information on the ICAP center at Columbia University go to https://icap.columbia.edu or to see more on Dr Justman go to: https://doctors.columbia.edu

Episode 15 "Innovative Approaches to Heart Health and Preventive Care" Guest: Dr. David Montgomery (The Good Dr. Dave)    Our special guest is Dr. David Montgomery. He is a board certified cardiologist, and he focuses on preventing heart disease in an innovative clinic in Atlanta, called the PREvent clinic is Dr. Dave is also a sought after TV personality and digital health content creator. He really believes that mass media and social media can play a really important role in educating patients and consumers about their health Dr. Montgomery discusses his innovative approach to preventive cardiology, emphasizing the importance of making healthcare enjoyable and patient-friendly to improve compliance and outcomes. He highlights the role of patient education and accountability, and the use of technology and data to enhance care. The conversation also covers the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on obesity and heart disease. To learn more about Dr Dave go to http://www.davemontgomerymd.com. To visit his clinics' website click here.

Episode 14 Fresh Perspectives: Stories of New Docs Guest: Dr Justen Ahmad  The podcast episode from the "Medicine in America" series, titled "Fresh Perspectives: Stories of New Doctors," features Dr. Justin Ahmad, a second-year resident in family medicine. Host Anthony Manson discusses with Dr. Ahmad the evolving landscape of healthcare and the unique challenges new doctors face. Dr. Ahmad shares his experiences from his training at Howard University to practicing in Iowa, highlighting the importance of empathy, communication, and preventive care in medicine. The conversation also delves into Dr. Ahmad's aspirations for community-based healthcare and his thoughts on balancing innovation with the core values of patient care. #Physicians #MedicalResidents #healthcare #FutureDocs

This episode features Guest Host Kim Lynch (CEO Of Metis Health Technologies) and Darrell Moon (CEO of Orriant & Leader of Aspirational Healthcare) diving into the pivotal role employers play in transforming the healthcare landscape. Employers should actively engage in reshaping the healthcare paradigm, emphasizing accountability, alignment with employee needs, and a proactive approach to healthcare management. Darrell is former hospital administrator who left the treatment side of healthcare to balance the scales for business. He has been a top speaker and consultant to CEOs on how to align the healthcare system to work for them and be more customer focused. He is leading the Aspirational Healthcare movement sweeping the country Kim and Darrell's conversation extends to addressing systemic inefficiencies and the need to shift focus from reactive to proactive healthcare solutions. They both expresses optimism about the future, particularly with large employers embracing membership-based primary care and the growing accessibility of innovative healthcare products and services. To learn more about Aspirational Healthcare click here  or Orriant click here

Sensing that “something was not quite right” with how Women’s Health was being practiced, Dr. Suzanne Fenske founded a truly innovative practice in New York City in 2020. Dr Fenske, a double board-certified OBGYN and integrative medicine physician, came to the realization that traditional medicine isn't providing holistic care for many women’s health conditions, leading her to focus on a 360-degree view of the patient and to integrate alternative therapies into her new practice, TārāMD.   In this episode, she discusses her journey from traditional medical practice at Mount Sinai in New York to founding TārāMD and her efforts to destigmatize menopause and overcome other challenges in women's healthcare.   To learn more about TārāMD click here www.taramd.com

While little known outside of the vision care sector, neuro-optometry is a fast-growing specialized field in which doctors treat patients with vision complaints and/or double vision due to concussions, brain injury or other neurological issues.   Dr. Jacqueline Theis, OD, FAOO, a leader in this burgeoning field, says the need for neuro-optometrist professionals “is expanding incredibly” as the field overall has grown broader in lock step with the recent surge in research into vision, visual vestibular therapy, and brain injury. “A lot of this is trying to figure out what can I do as an optometrist to help [people] to functionally see better,” says Theis, who is internationally recognized for diagnosis and management of oculomotor dysfunction in concussion, as well as prismatic correction of acquired and developmental double vision.  Listen to her story and follow her career path as she relates how early sports concussions led to her passion for helping others see the world more clearly.  To learn more about Dr.Jacqueline Theis and neuro-optometry visit click here

Guest: Spring N. Lane, MSN, FNP-C Spring Lane, a family nurse practitioner and entrepreneur, who is revolutionizing primary care through her innovative subscription-based practice, 'Exceptional Wellness.' Discover how Spring's passion for preventive medicine is transforming patient care and why her model is a beacon of change in a system designed for acute care. Spring Lane's vision is an inspiring call for a paradigm shift in primary care. Exceptional Wellness clinics address the glaring void in current healthcare, prioritizing well-being of their community. Spring envisions FNPs at the vanguard of a healthcare metamorphosis, propelling patients to unparalleled health milestones. For forward-thinking employers, this innovative model represents more than cost savings – it heralds a thriving, healthier workforce. For a closer look at Spring's pioneering endeavors, visit (exceptionalwellness.co )(thespringlane.com) \ Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Guest: Dr Dana Corriel In an era where digital media communication dominates even healthcare, establishing a robust online presence today is vital for today’s healthcare professionals. Dr. Dana Corriel, Founder of DoctorsOnSocialMedia.com (SoMeDocs), shares a wealth of insights on how doctors can leverage the digital realm for various purposes, from attracting new patients to becoming a trusted source of credible health information and even uncovering side hustles. Tune in to discover the strategies and tools that doctors are employing to thrive in today’s digital age, make a positive impact on patients' lives and also enhance their professional standing. For more information on being a part of SoMeDocs visit: Doctorsonsocialmedia.com Dr Corriel can also be reached through her portfolio website and blog, drcorriel.com.   Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Guests: Lauren LaCute, DO, and Kim Lynch, CEO/Founder of Metis Health  Dr. LaCute made the jump from a hospital-owned academic practice where revenue targets were increasingly rigorous and “everything about medicine was rushed” to her own private practice specializing in family medicine. Her strategy relies upon utilization of a tech-driven business consultant who provides the tools that maximize the practice’s impact on patient care and the community – while also helping to navigate the constant changes around policy, compliance, reimbursement and regulation.  For more information on Dr LaCute’s new practice visit: www.mifamilymedicalcenter.com/home and learn more about Kim Lynch’s company: www.getmetishealth.com  Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Guest: Lara Oboler MD, Cardiologist NYC Independent Practice Owner & Entrepreneur After spending several years in a corporate-owned medical practice, cardiologist  Dr. Lara Oboler says it became clear to her that “the real people in charge are not doctors... It wasn't the type of medicine I wanted to practice.” Already an experienced entrepreneur and business owner, Dr. Oboler established her own independent personalized medicine practice. To learn more about Dr Oboler's practice: https://www.laraobolermd.com/ Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Guest: Dr. Stephan Quentzel, MD, JD, MA, Medical Director The Louis Armstrong Department of Music Therapy at New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital Much can be understood about a patient from the musical choices he/she makes, even if they are not a musician, since everyone has “musical reflexes with rhythm and melody,” according to Stephan Quentzel, MD, says doctors today are discovering more about the physiological responses connected to different frequencies of music and brain activity and the value these connections have in patient wellbeing and care across a range of disorders. He discusses this new area of medicine and what it’s meant for his career in this episode of Medicine in America.   Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Over the past few decades, healthcare providers have been compelled to move from the traditional idea of medicine where “physicians take care of patients” to today’s model where increasingly “providers take care of insured lives.” This loss of connectivity between a patient and their doctor has worn away the fabric of what medicine used to be. Seeking alternative models and innovations, physician-business leaders Dr. Arlen Meyers and Dr. Jeffrey Hausfeld co-founded the Society for Physician Entrepreneurs (SOPE) to empower physicians and other professionals to innovate healthcare through entrepreneurship. This is their story.  To learn more about SOPE and to get in touch go to: https://www.sopenet.org Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

After beginning her career in pediatric emergency medicine, a taxing yet rewarding medical field, Dr. Bonni Goldstein finally hit the burnout challenge that many physicians today experience. After taking time off, she made an abrupt career transition about 10 years ago and immersed herself in studying the endocannabinoid system, the recently discovered system that regulates and controls many critical bodily functions. After becoming fascinated by the potential, Dr. Goldstein launched Canna-Centers Wellness & Education practice in Southern California, and now calls the field of medical cannabis "extremely rewarding work." Her practice has helped thousands of adults and children with serious or chronic conditions improve their quality of life. Her latest book -- Cannabis is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain -- was published by Little, Brown Spark in September 2020. For more information visit:  https://www.canna-centers.com/ Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Dr. Gautam Gulati, a recognized healthcare innovator, entrepreneur and advisor, has recently launched one of the most unique concepts in patient care, The Well Home. The new, stealth company sits at the intersection of wellness, health tech and real estate and is designed to address the needs of patients living with chronic conditions by transforming homes into luxury health & wellbeing experiences optimized for both lifespan and healthspan. Dr. G., as he is widely known, also talks about medicine in the future where the roles of doctors, nurses, social workers, and other professionals are transformed and complemented by "new roles that we can't even conceive today." To learn more about Dr.G's work or to book him as a motivational speaker, visit: www.iamdrg.com. To learn more about his new venture called The Well Home, visit: www.thewellhome.co To listen to his award-winning storytelling audio docuseries on human resiliency, visit: www.superhumans.health Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

In healthcare today, collaboration and alignment among providers, hospitals and payers often get short-changed, even when it's in the best interests of the patient. This is especially true in the commonly misunderstood field of palliative care, where Dr. Michael Frankenthaler is working to bring greater understanding, communication, and efficiency to the full spectrum of palliative care. Dr. Frankenthaler, a critical-care, ICU-trained physician who moved into palliative care a decade ago, says he sees this transition as being rooted in his efforts to "bring common sense back to medicine." His ideas center upon ways to "normalize the variability and uncertainty of serious disease" for patients and their families, as he discusses here. Dr. Frakenthaler is the Chief of Palliative Medicine NYCHealth+Hospitals/Jacobi and North Central Bronx Hospitals Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.

Practicing medicine grows more challenging every day, yet a few bold-thinking physicians – including rheumatologist Dr. Jill Weintraub of New York –are reinventing themselves and their practice models to better meet their professional objectives and improve patient care. Dr. Weintraub, who said she felt “out of alignment with her own integrity” while working in conventional multi-specialty practice, discusses how she successfully transitioned to a solo practice combining conventional evidence-based rheumatology with the principles of integrative medicine. This path opens the way to “so many innovative treatments and approaches,” Dr. Weintraub explains. Medicine in America is intended for U.S. audiences. This website is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed healthcare professional.