WakeMed Voices: Recent Episodes
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Join us for WakeMed Voices — health and wellness-focused podcasts from WakeMed experts. Tune in and tune up your health with topics ranging from children’s health to chronic conditions, caring for an aging parent and everything in between.
In this episode, Steve Smoot, EVP and President, North Carolina and Georgia Division for Advocate Health, shares what patients and families can expect from the proposed WakeMed–Atrium Health combination. He discusses expanded financial assistance, local governance protections, service and workforce growth, enhanced behavioral health care, and greater access to clinical trials and specialty services, including cancer care, all aimed at improving access, affordability, and outcomes for the community.
In this episode, hear from Brenda Gibson, former WakeMed Hospital Board Chair and WakeMed Foundation Board Chair, as she discusses the proposed WakeMed–Atrium Health strategic combination, highlighting its importance for patient access, healthcare capacity, and future growth. For more information visit wakemed.org/wakemed-atrium-combination.
Dr. Bill Lagarde discusses PreciselyYou, a community health research program brought to you by WakeMed. The program helps you understand how your DNA impacts your health and aims to help improve access to more personalized care, while supporting new research discoveries for our community.
Learn more about Dr. Lagarde.
This episode breaks down what the WakeMed and Atrium Health combination means for patient care, clinical expertise, and community health across Wake County. Dr. Charles Harr, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon and chief medical officer of WakeMed Raleigh campus and former U.S. Navy rear admiral, shares firsthand perspective on the health system merger and why it matters. Listen for insights on cardiac surgery advances, minimally invasive surgery, structural heart care, clinical research trials, and physician collaboration. Learn more and stay informed at wakemed.org/wakemed-atrium-combination.
Learn more about Charles Harr, MD, MBA
In this episode Dr. Thad McDonald, (retired OBGYN and Chair of the WakeMed Board of Directors) explains what the strategic combination with Atrium Health means for patients and the community. He discusses how the partnership will speed development of local cancer services, preserve safety net care, and improve access to specialty services. Learn more and stay informed at https://www.wakemed.org/wakemed-atrium-combination.
This episode features Sarah Crowley, Nursing Director of WakeMed Mental Health and Well-Being (including WakeMed’s Mental Health and Well-Being Hospital at Wakebrook), discussing how the WakeMed and Atrium Health strategic combination could expand access and elevate patient-centered care. Sarah explains plans to increase inpatient capacity, strengthen community mental health services, and support nursing workforce development.
In this episode, Donald Gintzig, President & CEO of WakeMed Health & Hospitals, outlines specifics about the strategic combination with Atrium Health and why it matters for access, equity, and long-term community health in Wake County. Hear about the benefits of expanded services, new facilities, investments in southeast Raleigh and more that aim to improve care for all. Visit WakeMed.org/wakemed-atrium-combination to learn more.
In this episode, Dr. Ryan Li, an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Wake Orthopedics, dives deep into shoulder instability. He explains how this common yet often misunderstood condition can impact individuals, especially athletes, and shares insights on diagnosis and treatment options. Tune in for expert advice on recognizing symptoms and when to seek help.
Learn more about Ryan Li, MD
Ever wondered if outpatient joint replacement is suitable for you? Join Caitlin Whyte as she discusses options with Dr. Lincoln Pratson, who shares insights about candidacy, care pathways, and the benefits of outpatient procedures. This episode is essential for anyone considering hip or knee surgery and curious about their recovery journey. Click the link for more insight.
Learn more about Lincoln Pratson, MD
Join us as orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon, Dr. Ryan Li of Wake Orthopaedics, discusses the telling signs of shoulder arthritis and how to differentiate it from other shoulder problems. Learn about the impact of lifestyle, age and physical activity on shoulder health. From pain management strategies to when to seek help, this episode is packed with essential advice for anyone impacted by shoulder pain. Don’t miss out – listen now!
Learn more about Ryan Li, MD
In this episode, Dr. Chad Greer, a non-operative sports medicine physician with Wake Orthopaedics, explores how regenerative medicine is revolutionizing the treatment of orthopedic injuries. Learn about the efficacy of techniques like platelet-rich plasma and stem cell therapies, and discover how they help patients heal faster without the need for surgery. Click here to listen and gain insights into future advancements in orthopedic care!
Learn more about Chad Greer, MD
CT scans performed for conditions or injuries like trauma or heart disease often show incidental findings that could be related to lung cancer. These incidental findings, also called lung nodules, can be the result of old infections or scar tissue, or they can be cancerous. Join us as Dr. Brian Cohen explains the difference between a nodule and lung cancer, how they are followed and by whom, and when treatment interventions are needed.
Learn more about Brian Cohen, MD
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 10% to 20% of lung cancers diagnosed in the United State, or 20,000 to 40,000 lung cancers each year, happen in people who never smoked or smoked fewer than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. Join us as Dr. Brian Cohen discusses how this is possible and what nonsmokers should know when it comes to knowing the symptoms and risks for lung cancer.
Learn more about Brian Cohen, MD
From targeted therapy to immunotherapy, lung cancer care is entering a new era of possibilities. Dr. Praveen Namireddy of WakeMed Cancer Care joins us to share how innovative treatments, early detection and a team-based approach to care are changing lives. Hear why there’s more reason than ever to be hopeful about the future of lung cancer treatment.
Learn more about Praveen Namireddy, MD
Feeling overwhelmed by the cessation process? Are you confused about the differences between smoking and vaping? This episode breaks down the distinctions, discussing the harmful chemicals and health risks associated with both. Hear from Stacy Thiedeman, PA-C, as she provides offer valuable insights and practical tips for quitting smoking and vaping. From medication options like nicotine replacement therapy to behavioral strategies, discover the best ways to support your journey toward freedom from nicotine addiction.
Breast cancer care has come a long way – and the progress is inspiring. WakeMed breast oncologist Dr. Pallavi Kopparthy shares how treatments are now more precise, recovery is gentler and early detection continues to save lives. Learn more about breakthroughs making treatment more effective and helping women thrive after breast cancer.
Learn more about Pallavi Kopparthy, MD
Navigating life after limb loss can be overwhelming, but having the right resources and teams in place can make all the difference. Hear from Olivia Bloom, Physical Therapist at WakeMed, to learn more.
Head and neck cancers have many names based on where the cancer starts. Dr. Overton discusses risk factors, signs and symptoms and treatments.
What if you could diagnose and treat cancer at the same time? That’s the promise of theranostics – a groundbreaking approach that personalizes care down to a molecular level. Steve Wozniak, BS, CNMT, PET, associate director of molecular imaging & theranostics at 210 PET Imaging and 210 Theranostics breaks down how it works, what it means for cancer patients and what’s on the horizon in this evolving field.
Explore how Magnet recognition benefits not just patients but also the dedicated staff within hospitals. This episode highlights initiatives that enrich the work environment, fostering professional growth and satisfaction while ultimately improving patient care.
In this episode, Dr. Christine Baker breaks down which vaccines are essential at each stage of adulthood. Dr. Baker explains why it’s important to stay up to date with your vaccines and how they can protect you from serious illnesses.
Stress incontinence, or urinary leakage, is the inability to control your urge to urinate – particularly when there’s an external pressure placed on the bladder or abdomen. Dr. Sidhu, a Urologist at WakeMed, discusses the signs of incontinence and treatment options.
What happens after a stroke? In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Dallapiazza outlines what stroke survivors can anticipate during their recovery journey and the various therapies available to aid in regaining independence and function.
In this informative episode, Dr. Chandni Karlaria sheds light on strokes —what they are, identifying risk factors, and the signs to watch for. Get the crucial insights you need to recognize a stroke and what to do.
Dr. Michael Soboeiro defines pre-diabetes and how it can progress to diabetes. Tune in to learn more about risk factors, lifestyle changes if you're at risk and the importance of working with a primary care physician.
Dr. Michael Soboeiro discusses various lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of developing dementia, including engaging in activities like crocheting and reading, playing music, solving puzzles, and maintaining social interactions. He also highlights the importance of diet, sleep quality, and stress management in brain health. Tune in for practical tips, recommended resources, and the latest research findings on dementia prevention. Join us on this journey to keep our minds sharp and healthy!
Dive deep into the world of atrial fibrillation (AFib) with healthcare professionals from WakeMed. Learn about the symptoms, risks, and how AFib is diagnosed and managed, empowering you with the knowledge to navigate your heart health.
Millions of men and women struggle with symptoms related to bladder health conditions or disease. Hear from Dr. Katy Reines, a Urologist on the importance of bladder health.
Hear from Jennifer Rutledge, a family nurse practitioner with WakeMed Primary Care on the importance of having conversations with your primary care provider about mental health. Learn how a primary care provider can help support you and your well-being.
Early detection of lymphedema, the abnormal build-up of fluid that causes swelling, is key to treatment and prevention. In this episode, Ashley Railsback, a certified lymphedema therapist, shares the importance of managing lymphedema symptoms during and after breast cancer treatment.
Lorrie Maynard, RN discusses personal care service offered through WakeMed Home Health to adults in Wake County, 7 days a week. Personal care services are those everyday tasks that get hard to do as we age, such as bathing, dressing, grocery shopping, laundry, meal prep and getting to doctors appointments.
Kegel exercises have become a common recommendation for strengthening pelvic floor muscles in women. But pelvic floor muscle health is as important for men as it is for women. Hear from WakeMed pelvic health physical therapist Kaili Warnock, PT, DPT share how Kegels can help improve bowel and bladder control and improve sexual performance for men.
Join Dr. Cameron Barber, Sleep Medicine Physician at WakeMed Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, to discuss Restless Leg Syndrome.
If you find that your brain starts revving up as soon as your head hits the pillow, or you're prone to tossing and turning at night, you're not alone. An estimated 1 in 3 people don't get the sleep they need on a regular basis. Listen as WakeMed sleep medicine expert Gina Mauldin, PA-C discusses why we have trouble sleeping, tools and techniques to make your bedtime routine smoother, and easy lifestyle changes that can lead to better rest.
Cardiac rehabilitation can help prevent another heart attack or cardiac event and will help to develop and maintain heart-healthy habits. Listen as WakeMed cardiac rehab nurse Kimberly Dail shares what every patient should know about cardiac rehabilitation.
Join Dr. Megan Morternson, Genetic Counselor, Oncology, WakeMed Cancer Care, to discuss Breast Cancer and Genetic Testing.
Join Dr. Matthew Bruehl, Pediatric Pulmonologist at WakeMed Children’s - Pediatric Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, to discuss the dangers of vaping in teens.
Total shoulder replacement surgery can be life-changing for people who have experienced years of debilitating shoulder pain or have limited range of motion. Listen as Dr. Jonathan Chappell of Wake Orthopaedics, a WakeMed Physicians Practice, explains the procedure, its risks and benefits, and the results you can expect.
Genetics play an important role in cancer treatments today. Working with genetic counselors helps to determine if a patient’s cancer has a genetic component, which will influence treatment decisions. WakeMed Cancer Care genetic counselor Megan Mortenson explains how genetic counseling works, why it’s important and how genetic counseling may help you or your loved one.
The cancer journey often involves a number of unknowns for patients and their families. That’s where oncology nurse navigators come in! Listen as Katie Brummer, an oncology nurse navigator at WakeMed Cancer Care, explains how they help patients and caregivers manage the information involved with diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and anything else in between.
Cancer can affect every aspect of your health, including your appetite and diet. Rebecca Simpson, a registered dietitian at WakeMed Cancer Care, explains why your diet is so important during cancer treatment, and provides tips on foods to add and avoid.
Hearing loss is common, especially as we age. Fortunately, there is technology that can help. Hearing aids have changed a lot. Learn more about hearing aids and causes for hearing loss with Valeria Moore, AuD.
Dr. Chancey (Clinical Psychologist) talks about digital addiction in kids and teens. Dr. Chancey explains the relationship between screen time and mental health in young people, why are screens so addictive and what are signs of a developing problem with screen time.
Dr. Houlihan (Physician at WakeMed General Surgery) talks about Potty Talk: Back to Basics.
For more information on Dr. Houlihan
In this episode, Dr. Evans (Physician, WakeMed OB-GYN) talks about what is a pap smear, what to do with an abnormal pap smear and the screening process.
Dr. Duberman (General and Colorectal Surgeon) talks about diverticulitis. Information on what causes it, the symptoms, and the difference between diverticulosis and diverticulitis is discussed in this episode.
Cheryl Dickerson (Prenatal Genetics Program Coordinator at WakeMed) talks about genetic testing & pregnancy. Ms. Dickerson explains what genetic testing is, how and where is performed, and how long it usually takes to get the results.
Dr. Byramji (Physician, WakeMed Children's - Pediatric Primary Care) talks about the B.R.A.T. Diet and Guidance for Kids After GI Illness. Dr. Byramji discusses how to help your kid recover from a GI illness, how long it takes to recover from this illness, and what is the BRAT diet.
Ms. Parminter (Registered Dietitian) talks about emotional eating. Ms. Parminter discusses what is emotional eating, the difference between emotional hunger and physical hunger, and how emotional eating can be improved.
Dr. Fowler discusses the importance of sleep in women's lives for health & happiness. Dr. Fowler talks about the impact of both short and long-term sleep deprivation on the health of women and the scientific research around the importance of sleep.
Dr. Trapani (Primary Care Physician) discusses the importance of knowing your health numbers related to cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, and body mass index.
Dr. Sproul discusses Seasonal Allergies. Dr. Sproul talks about the common symptoms related to allergies, usual treatment options, and tips for helping with them.
Dr. Selensky discusses the mindset around making healthy food choices and turning them into a lifestyle. Dr. Selensky talks about goal setting, making changes, and thinking traps.
In this panel interview, Dr. Udell and Dr. Lyons share information about Vasectomy. Frequently asked questions are answered and the procedural steps and post-procedure protocol of a vasectomy are discussed.
In this panel interview, Dr. Udell and Dr. Lyons share information about Vasectomy. Frequently asked questions are answered and the procedural steps and post-procedure protocol of a vasectomy are discussed.
Sarah Hendrickson talks about children and bedwetting. Ms. Hendrickson discusses causes, solutions, the support that parents can give to their children, and non-medical interventions.
Stacy Thiedman PA-C, leads a discussion on how you can take the steps towards quitting smoking.
Dr. Samerah Hill leads a discussion focused on children and their eating habits, and how parents can help deter and avoid picky eating.
Erin Hurlock explores the Child Life Services that WakeMed has to offer as well as the specialists that can help you and your child.
Dr. Micheal Ferguson discusses hearing health, and how earbuds and headphones can negatively impact your hearing if misused.
Learn why getting vaccines is important and which ones adults should make sure they have. Dr. Bartkoski also discusses the efficacy & safety of vaccines.
Danielle Sawrey-Kubicek, a physican assistant at WakeMed, discusses how stress can affect women, and ways to manage your stress in a healthy way.
Dr. Melissa Carlucci discusses puberty, and signs as a parent one should watch out for.
Joanna Murray, a physician assistant at WakeMed, leads a discussion on women's health and nutrition.
The Covid scare has caused people to wake up and take stock in their overall health and longevity. Often times people who truly need to lose weight will think "someday" or "I'll try this new diet". They spend years losing weight without getting anywhere. Now people are starting to realize that maybe "someday" needs to be today and that the same diet industry that has failed them so many times might not be the right answer. It is time to seriously consider the only truly effective weight loss strategy, bariatric surgery. It's time to follow the science.
Dr. Allen Marshall discusses seasonal allergies, and the steps you can take to prevent or alleviate your symptoms.
Dr. Gita Fleischman discusses a nonsurgical facial rejuvination method using Botox cosmetic.
Naomi Bauer and Audrey Whitacre discuss the important role that home-based and outpatient rehabilitation have in COVID-19 recovery.
Dr. Kevin Davidson discusses the the stages and treatment of lung cancer, and the importance of screening tests in modern medicine.
Dr. Jon Chappell discusses the high prelevance of shoulder injuries in the aging population, as well as the preventative treatment options available.
Dr. Alden Maier discusses the importance of lung cancer screenings and tips on overcoming any fears.
There's a concern that North Carolina will see increased numbers of bites this year due to COVID-19 social isolation. More people will be off from work and school -- and spending time around the home or in the outdoors will likely lead to more bites.
Benjamin German, MD, discusses how people can avoid snake bites, what they should do if bitten, and what treatments are given once someone reaches the emergency department.
Puberty is time that children go from being dependent to being independent. How can parents navigate this?
Lynn Wirth, MD, discusses how you can help adolescents learn to cope with stress and make smart decisions, as well as how to manage challenges like extraneous social media use.
Asthma has a lot of definitions and most of them are somewhat confusing. Matthew Bruehl, MD, a pediatric pulmonologist explains what asthma really is, how it differs from other respiratory diseases, common triggers, and what therapies are available.
Heatherly Simmons, PA-C, CDE, discusses what women need to know about managing diabetes during pregnancy, who is at risk for developing gestational diabetes, and what women can do prior to getting pregnant to mitigate the risk.
From the WakeMed Mothers' Milk Bank, approximately 240,000 ounces of breast milk is dispensed annually. The milk donated provides milk for up to 720,000 feedings in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and breast milk provided by donors the bank's donors serves 44 hospitals across the East Coast.
Montana Wagner-Gillespie, MS, IBCLC, manager of the WakeMed Mothers' Milk Bank discusses the importance of breast milk donation, how the process works, and where donors can find more information about contributing.
Scott Bovard, MD, discusses robotics in weight loss surgery, including how robotic-assisted surgery compares to traditional surgical approaches.
Gurvinder Deol, MD, discusses minimally invasive spine surgery techniques and the benefits of using these approaches (reduced hospital stays, less pain, quicker return to work and normal daily activities).
Dr. Bassam Rimawi, MD, FACOG, discusses how influenza can affect pregnant women, which symptoms women should be aware of, and how the flu is treated. He also provides information on how the flu may impact the fetus.
Cold and flu season is upon us, so what can you do to stay healthy? Or, if you do get sick, where should you go to seek care? Jessica Dixon, MHA, BSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC, discusses prevention tips and when to choose whether to go to primary care, urgent care, or the emergency department should you develop flu-like symptoms.
Lewis Overton, MD, discusses thyroidectomy, including why someone might have to undergo this procedure and what treatment options are available.
Stuart Russell, MD, discusses the four classes and four stages of heart failure, including symptoms and treatment options for each.
Ian Villaneuva, MD, discusses the symptoms and causes of gallbladder disease, as well as treatment options and what patients can expect if their gallbladder has to be removed.
Mark Wood, MD, discusses the importance of injury prevention in children's organized sports, what to look for in your child, and the most common types of injuries youth athletes experience.
Carmin Kalorin, MD, discusses why kidney stones form, ways to minimize your risk, how to differentiate kidney stone pain from other conditions, and treatment options.
J. Duncan Phillips, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief at WakeMed Children’s Hospital, discusses chest wall deformities and how they can be corrected via both nonoperative and surgical intervention.
Health living is valuable, allowing you to enjoy life and have the stamina to seek success. Dr. Tiffany Lowe-Payne of WakeMed Bariatric Surgery & Medical Weight Loss discusses how to boost your health.
Heart failure means your heart isn't pumping enough blood to your body. Dr. Stuart Russell, Director of Heart Failure at WakeMed Heart & Vascular; Regional Director of Heart Failure and Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine, explains what to know about heart failure and what to do.
Dr. Shereen Alavian discusses ADHD in children and when parents or teachers should be worried. She delves into symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Forgetting where you left your keys may have you concerned about memory loss. Dr. Lynn Kakos, Clinical Neuropsychologist, explains when it may be more than just aging.
The two types of diabetes require different treatment. Dr. Hillary Lockemer, pediatric endocrinologist, discusses the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Some children require ear tubes to reduce frequency of infections. Dr. Michael Ferguson, Director of WakeMed Physician Practices ENT, Head & Neck Surgery Program, discusses how ear tubes work and when they are recommended.
Stress urinary incontinence affects many women but isn't always talked about. Dr. Andrea Crane discusses the condition.
Before you get pregnant, you want to be as healthy as possible for a successful pregnancy. Dr. Chantel Roedner discusses what you need to know to get your pregnancy off on the right foot.