The Healthspan Podcast
For most of us, the truth is, our health isn’t what we want it to be. We do our best, but it’s a challenge these days. It’s no secret the world can be an unhealthy place and the result is that more than 60% of adults are sick with diseases like high blood pressure, unhealthy weight, high blood sugar, and heart disease. All of that disease is costing us. We are taking tons of medications - spending too much time in doctor’s offices and hospitals - and not living life to the fullest. That’s why I started ”The Healthspan Podcast”. As a cardiologist with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the power of lifestyle modification in treating and even reversing the chronic diseases that plague our society. In this podcast, we’ll delve deep into the world of preventive medicine, exploring evidence-based strategies to help you optimize your health, reclaim your vitality, and break free from the cycle of medications and doctor’s visits. Each episode features insightful discussions with leading experts and inspiring stories from individuals who have successfully transformed their health through lifestyle changes. We’ll cover topics like nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep hygiene, and mental and emotional wellbeing. Our goal is to empower you with practical knowledge and actionable advice for your health journey. Join me, Dr. R. Todd Hurst, MD, FASE, FACE, as we uncover the heart of the matter and embark on a journey towards better health and more vibrant life. Let’s cut through the noise and misinformation and, together, create a path to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. Subscribe now to The Healthspan Podcast and take the first step towards transforming your health and the quality of your life.
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Episodes
Sunday Sep 10, 2023
Sunday Sep 10, 2023
Prioritize your health today! Book an appointment directly with Dr. Hurst now!
Welcome to another enlightening episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with your host, Dr. R. Todd Hurst. This episode spotlights Dr. Wilder, a pioneer in the field of concierge medicine and a passionate advocate for a holistic approach to health.
In a candid conversation, Dr. Wilder shares her journey from leaving Mayo Clinic in 2003 to establishing her own concierge service. Unpacking the complex world of insurance and the financial challenges physicians face, she highlights the stark reality of the traditional healthcare model where a family practice doctor cares for a staggering 2500-3000 patients a year.
Distinguishing between healthcare as a luxury versus a necessity, Dr. Wilder explains the ethos of concierge medicine: providing a 'first-class' healthcare experience that emphasizes personalized attention and comprehensive care. She offers a unique perspective on health as our number one asset, a belief reflected in her approach to care.
Dr. Wilder provides an insightful introduction to functional medicine and its paradigm-shifting perspective that views conditions like diabetes as symptoms, not diseases. She shares her holistic approach to health that addresses sleep, breathing, and nutrition, which has been transformative for many of her patients, especially those with autoimmune diseases.
Join us as we delve into advanced lipid testing, the benefits of CT calcium scoring, and the importance of listening to the wake-up calls our bodies give us. Dr. Wilder also shares advice for people feeling underserved by their primary care doctor, including tips on how to find a concierge doctor that aligns with their health values and needs.
This episode offers a fascinating look into a healthcare model that is redefining the doctor-patient relationship, and empowers patients to take charge of their health. Don't miss out on this illuminating discussion and remember to book your appointment directly with Dr. Hurst!
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Sunday Aug 20, 2023
Sunday Aug 20, 2023
Welcome to another insightful episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with your host, Dr. R. Todd Hurst. This episode features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Ianotti, a renowned expert in sleep and sleep apnea, who discusses the integral role of sleep in our overall health.
Trained at prestigious institutions such as Cleveland and Mayo Clinic, Dr. Ianotti shares her journey from sleep fellowship to stroke fellowship, and the unexpected intersections between sleep and stroke. She offers a revealing insight into her own experience with sleep apnea, demonstrating that even healthcare professionals are not immune to this common condition.
In a world where phrases like "I'll sleep when I'm dead" are normalized, Dr. Ianotti emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sleep. She advocates for the inclusion of sleep in the 'Simple 7' health factors, promoting it to the 'Essential 8'. With numerous people suffering from treatable conditions like daytime fogginess and dozing off while driving, Dr. Ianotti insists that everyone should be screened for sleep conditions.
We delve into some common symptoms of sleep disorders, such as morning headaches and concentration issues, often misdiagnosed as ADHD. Dr. Ianotti explains the STOP-BANG questionnaire, a simple yet effective tool to determine the risk of sleep apnea.
The conversation explores the widespread tendency to dismiss fatigue and the necessity for society to recognize the value of restful sleep. With stress and sleep contributing to numerous health issues, Dr. Ianotti emphasizes the need to control these modifiable factors.
Dr. Ianotti recounts her personal journey with sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment, and the life-changing benefits she experienced after using a CPAP machine. She outlines the steps to get a sleep study, the costs involved, and explores the range of available treatment options including home sleep kits, neuromodulation, retainer devices, and surgical therapies.
The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion about the link between chronic sleep issues and dementia, emphasizing that prioritizing sleep isn't just about short-term benefits; it's a long-term investment in your cognitive health.
Join us in this enlightening episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" as we redefine the narrative around sleep and unlock the 'Essential Eight' for a healthier and more fulfilling life. Don't forget to book your appointment directly with Dr. Hurst!
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Ready to take charge of your heart health? Book an appointment directly with Dr. Hurst now!
On this episode of "The Healthspan Podcast," Dr. R. Todd Hurst has an eye-opening conversation with Ironman competitor Robert Steinberg, who shares his remarkable journey through heart disease.
Robert's story begins as a dedicated Ironman athlete, who, despite his high level of physical fitness, suffered a heart attack. Ignoring an urgent warning about his cholesterol, he found himself in denial about his health situation. He opens up about this denial, and his subsequent drive to seek help at Mayo Clinic.
We discuss Robert's wife's concerns about him continuing to compete in Ironman races and his decision to participate in a farewell Ironman. Robert shares insights about pushing his physical boundaries in the past, and how his approach to exertion has changed after his heart attack.
One pivotal part of Robert's journey is his experience with statins. After initially experiencing body aches with his first medication, he discusses his transition to Repatha, a PCSK9 antibody, to control his Lipoprotein(a) levels, a risk factor for calcification.
In an enlightening segment, Robert and Dr. Hurst discuss the role of cardiac rehab and nutrition in managing heart disease. Robert shares his experience of how a plan, formulated by Reilyn, helped control his rising blood pressure through nutritional changes. We delve into the question, "Can I eat what I want when I'm super active?" and Dr. Hurst reveals what he's learned about the role of fruit in health.
Finally, we move into a discussion about mental health and its impact on overall well-being, particularly in the context of heart disease. Robert talks candidly about his fear of exertion post-heart attack, and the mental benefits he's found in running.
The episode wraps up with Robert's advice to others dealing with heart disease - prioritizing support, questioning everything, and exploring natural ways to maintain heart health. He reveals that his goal has shifted from podium finishes to longevity, illustrating a profound shift in perspective.
Join us for this inspiring episode of "The Healthspan Podcast", as we explore the reality that even the healthiest among us are not immune to heart issues, and uncover the path to resilience and recovery with Robert Steinberg.
Diagnosed with a High Coronary Artery Calcium Score and unsure about what to do Next? Get Dr. Hursts Free Guide – A Preventive Cardiologists Framework for Treating High Coronary Artery Calcium – Download Today by going to HealthspanMD.com/CACS
Subscribe to The Healthspan Podcast now and join us on this journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. Don't forget to book your appointment directly with Dr. Hurst!
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
Book an in-person consultation with Dr. Hurst today!
Welcome back to another episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with your host, Dr. R. Todd Hurst. Today, we're joined by the phenomenal Dr. Rebecca Chester, an expert in interventional cardiology, who shares her insights into her daily practices, the fascinating world of stents, and the misconceptions surrounding chest pain.
In this conversation, Dr. Chester talks about her journey to becoming an interventional cardiologist. Despite the current imbalance with fewer women in cardiology, she shares her experiences and the key influences that guided her career path.
We delve into what her role as an interventional cardiologist entails, demystifying the intricacies of cardiac procedures. Dr. Chester explains that inserting catheters into hearts, while sounding risky, is generally safe and often crucial in saving lives.
One key topic we cover is the common assumption that blockages in heart arteries need to be fixed. Dr. Chester explains the difference between stable and unstable coronary artery disease, and how the approach to treatment varies between the two. She discusses the guidelines she uses to decide whether a patient is a suitable candidate for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), clarifying many common misconceptions.
Moving on, we explore the often-misunderstood realm of chest pain. Dr. Chester sheds light on the warning signs that someone experiencing chest pain or shortness of breath should seek medical attention and helps listeners discern heart-related chest pain from other causes.
For those with a history of heart attack or stent placement, we cover how often they should seek follow-up care and what they can expect during these visits.
Next, we discuss screening methods, including stress testing in asymptomatic people and CT calcium scoring. Dr. Chester explains the situations in which she recommends CT calcium scoring and how it informs her treatment decisions.
Finally, we look into the future with Dr. Chester sharing her thoughts on the most promising emerging technologies or techniques in interventional cardiology, what she loves most about her practice, and her crucial advice for patients who have experienced a heart attack or received a stent.
This episode is filled with invaluable insights and expert advice from one of the leading figures in interventional cardiology. Join us on "The Healthspan Podcast" with Dr. R. Todd Hurst for this enlightening conversation with Dr. Rebecca Chester.
Subscribe to The Healthspan Podcast now and join us on this journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. Don't forget to book your appointment directly with Dr. Hurst!
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
In this episode of "The Healthspan Podcast," Dr. R. Todd Hurst welcomes Dr. Cristina Pecci, DO, a cardiology specialist with over 7 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Pecci specializes in echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, vascular medicine, preventive care, and women's health, working at Steward Health in Tempe, AZ.
Dr. Pecci and Dr. Hurst dive into the topic of women's heart health, discussing the alarming fact that 1 in 4 women die from heart disease. They explore the reasons behind this statistic, touching on factors like genetics, PCOS, and estrogen deficiencies. Dr. Pecci emphasizes the importance of knowing your numbers and being aware of your genetic risk factors.
The conversation then moves on to the differences in how heart issues manifest in men and women, with women more likely to experience symptoms like digestive issues, nausea, referred pain, jaw pain, and fatigue. Dr. Pecci shares her advice for women on how to advocate for themselves and ensure they receive proper care.
Dr. Pecci also shares her approach to helping her patients and discusses the phenomenon of dying from a broken heart, also known as stress cardiomyopathy. She explains why women may be more likely to experience takosubo and how the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a spike in these cases.
The discussion then explores the connection between stress, depression, anxiety, and heart health. Dr. Pecci shares her insights on the importance of support groups, sharing your story, and allowing yourself to be cared for after a heart attack or event. She emphasizes the need to control what you can and leave the rest to your doctor.
Join Dr. R. Todd Hurst and Dr. Cristina Pecci in this informative and empowering episode on women's heart health and advocacy. Subscribe now to The Healthspan Podcast and continue your journey towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Thursday Jun 01, 2023
Thursday Jun 01, 2023
Schedule your in-person consultation with Dr. Hurst today!
Welcome to another episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with your host, Dr. R. Todd Hurst. In today's episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Dr. Maria V. Gibson, MD, PHD, the author of "Find Your Way: Illness, Doctors, and Healthcare: A doctor’s guide to taking charge of your health and navigating modern healthcare". Dr. Gibson shares her journey, her insights on navigating the complexities of modern healthcare, and her advice on how to take control of your health.
Throughout the discussion, Dr. Gibson and Dr. Hurst explore the importance of understanding your family history, the habits that drive your risk, and how to be the CEO of your health. They also discuss the generational differences in healthcare expectations and the ways doctors need to adapt to the changing landscape of patient care.
At 11:00, Dr. Gibson explains the differences in healthcare approach between baby boomers and Generation Y. At 12:20, she shares a personal story about establishing a relationship with her patients, and how the meaning of "doctor" translates to "teacher." Dr. Gibson then discusses her early career experience working a $5 an hour job and how it influenced her approach to healthcare.
At 17:24, Dr. Gibson delves into the topic of finding your health advisors and addresses the divisive nature of health advice in modern times. A great caption moment occurs at 20:10, when Dr. Gibson and Dr. Hurst have an insightful conversation about Takosubo cardiomyopathy and its impact on women's health.
The discussion then moves on to the connection between the brain and the heart, with Dr. Hurst providing a detailed explanation. At 35:00, Dr. Gibson shares her personal experience combating her broken heart symptoms through yoga, tai chi, and meditation.
Starting at 36:00, the conversation shifts to the foundational role of stress and sleep in overall health. Dr. Gibson shares her recommendations for managing stress at 38:20, including controlling your environment, diet, exercise, sleep, and surrounding yourself with a supportive community.
This episode is packed with actionable advice on how to take control of your health and create a personalized roadmap to living a long, healthy life. If you're ready to transform your health and break free from the cycle of medications and doctor’s visits, don't miss this episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with Dr. R. Todd Hurst and Dr. Maria V. Gibson.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Monday May 08, 2023
Monday May 08, 2023
Book an in-person cardiology consultation with Dr. Hurst today!
Welcome to another episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with your host, Dr. R. Todd Hurst. In today's episode, we have an insightful conversation featuring Arizona celebrity Mathew Blades, Dr. Hurst, and Rielyn Hoffman, discussing heart health, personal stories, and the importance of preventative measures. Mathew Blades shares his own heart-wrenching story, emphasizing the significance of awareness and understanding of heart-related issues.
Throughout the discussion, they explore the role of CPR and defibrillation, silent heart attacks, and emotional impact of heart health experiences. They also share incredible personal stories and reflections on pain and dying during a heart attack, as well as the importance of proactive heart health care.
At 00:04:34, Mathew Blades shares his personal story. At 00:13:20, the importance of CPR and defibrillation is discussed. At 00:23:53, they talk about how heart attacks can be silent. At 00:29:56, the conversation delves into the emotional impact of heart health experiences. At 00:39:06, the incredible save of a retired Marine colonel is shared. At 00:41:12, they reflect on dying and pain during a heart attack. At 00:42:29, they emphasize the importance of proactive heart health care.
This episode is filled with heartfelt stories and expert advice on how to take control of your heart health and create a personalized roadmap to live a long, healthy life. If you're ready to transform your health and be proactive in heart disease prevention, don't miss this episode of "The Healthspan Podcast" with Dr. R. Todd Hurst, Mathew Blades, and Rielyn Hoffman.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Subscribe now to The Healthspan Podcast and join us on this journey towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
Friday Mar 31, 2023
Friday Mar 31, 2023
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.