The Starting Gate

Send us a textIn this episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful truth: medicine isn’t black and white—it lives in the gray. While bold, oversimplified health claims often go viral on social media, real patient care is far more nuanced. We explore why individualized care matters and how no two patients are exactly alike. From lifestyle medicine to functional and integrative approaches, we discuss how social media has changed the conversation—and why a flexible, compassionate, and personalized approach to health is more important than ever.We also talk about the frustration many doctors feel—caught between a desire to provide deeper care and the very real constraints of time, insurance, and a system that isn’t built for individualized healing. Burnout is real, and it often stems from knowing what patients need but not being able to deliver it in a rushed, volume-driven model. There’s no one right way—and that’s okay. But in today’s healthcare landscape, it’s more important than ever to take ownership of your health and become your own best advocate.thestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textWhat is metabolic health, and why does it matter for your energy, weight, and long-term wellness? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Meredith Sweeney, a former bariatric surgeon now practicing longevity medicine, to unpack what’s happening under the surface.We dive into insulin resistance—how it develops, why it's so common, and what it means for your overall health. Dr. Sweeney explains how continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can help you better understand how your body responds to food, exercise, sleep, and stress—without getting too caught up in chasing perfect numbers.We also explore VO₂ max and metabolic  testing, and how they relate to your fitness and longevity. Dr. Sweeney shares the science behind zone 2 training, HIIT, resistance training, protein needs, and fasting—helping you build sustainable habits that support metabolic resilience and long-term health.Find Dr. Meredith Sweeney:Sano Longevity Follow on Instagram:@sano_longevitythestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textIs your thyroid holding you back? Endocrinologist Dr. Kyle Rosenstein joins us to explain the signs of hypothyroidism, what Hashimoto’s really means, and why thyroid lab testing isn’t one-size-fits-all. We also dive into how and when to take thyroid medications  (hint: don’t take it with your morning coffee) and what to know if you’re dealing with multiple autoimmune conditions. If you’ve been wondering whether your symptoms are thyroid-related, this episode is for you. thestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with clinical and cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy to talk all things skin health. From teen breakouts to aging skin, we cover what changes as we age, what your skincare routine really needs (hint: it’s probably simpler than you think), and how to choose the right cleanser and moisturizer.We dive deep into sunscreen—how much, how often, and what kind. Plus, we explore how lifestyle habits like diet, stress, and sleep show up on your skin, and which trendy treatments are worth the hype (and your money), and which ones aren’t. If you’ve got skin (and we’re guessing you do), this one’s for you. Find Dr. Jeffy:Brooke Jeffy, MD@brookejeffymdCheck out her skin care line for teens and tweensthestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textConfused by health insurance? You’re not alone. In this episode, we sit down with personal benefits manager Whitney Kline  to unpack the key terms and choices that matter most—high vs. low deductibles, tax credits, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums, plus how to make the most of HSAs and FSAs. We also explore the world of health shares and how they differ from traditional insurance. We simplify the terms, options, and strategies to help you choose wisely. A must-listen for anyone making decisions about coverage!Find Whitney Kline:Whitney Kline at HSA for AmericaHSA for AmericaText Whitney at 720-741-1566@hsaforamerica on XHSA for America on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HSAforAmericathestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textYour brain is hard at work while you rest—and Dr. Lauren Whitehurst is here to explain how. From sleep cycles and memory consolidation to the impact of naps, nicotine, and hormones, we explore the surprising ways sleep shapes your cognitive health. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your sleep work better for you, this conversation is a must-listen. Are you interested in participating in research with Dr. Whitehurst?- Research Study about effects of Alcohol and Hormones on Sleep:  email alcoholsleepuky@gmail.com- Research on Sleep in Black Americans:  email Sleep4ScienceUKY@gmail.comthestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textInsomnia is more than just a bad night’s sleep—it’s a frustrating and emotional experience for millions. In this powerful episode, sleep psychologist Dr. Ryan Wetzler helps us understand the science behind sleep timing and chronotypes, the very real fear of not sleeping, and why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is such a life-changing tool. Whether you’re just starting to struggle or have relied on sleep meds for years, this conversation offers hope—and a clear path forward. Find Dr. Ryan Wetzler:Sleep Health CenterFind Behavioral Sleep Specialists:Board of Behavioral Sleep MedicineAmerican Board of Sleep Medicine: List of Behavioral Sleep Medicine SpecialistsSociety of Behavioral Sleep Medicinethestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textWe all know sleep is important—but do you know just how far its benefits go? In this kickoff episode of our sleep series, we dive into the surprising ways sleep supports your brain, heart, metabolism, immune system, and more. Plus, we break down how daily habits—from evening workouts to that afternoon latte—can help or hurt your ability to get quality rest.Tune in to fully understand the true healing power of sleep.And stay tuned for Episode 2, where we’re joined by sleep psychologist, Dr. Ryan Wetzler to talk about what to do when sleep doesn’t come easily.Then in Episode 3, we speak with a sleep researcher and psychologist about what your brain is really doing while you sleep—and how to use that knowledge to boost learning, memory, and even make the most of your naps.thestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textFrom bored kids to bedtime battles, summer can be a wild ride for families. Luckily, pediatrician Dr. Sarah O’Leary is here to help. In this episode, we talk about water safety, helmets, sunscreen, screen time, and how to set up a summer routine that keeps kids safe, healthy, and (mostly) happy. You’ll also hear how the principles of lifestyle medicine—like sleep, movement, nutrition, and social connection—can make this summer your best one yet. Prescription for healthy families: 5-2-1-0​​​Five: Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.Two: Limit screen time to no more than two hours a day.One: Be physically active at least one hour a day.Zero: Don't drink sweetened beverages.Ideas for kids in Lexington, KY.  If you are somewhere else you likely have these same resources so check it out!Lex Fun 4 KidsMacaroni Kid - Lexington, KYLexington Public Library Events CalendarLexARTSthestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us a textIf you've ever wondered whether your fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog could be more than "just stress," this episode is for you.  We sit down with rheumatologist Dr. Olga Pinkston to demystify inflammatory arthritis and fibromyalgia- how they show up, how they’re diagnosed, and why lifestyle choices matter.   Learn how food, movement, rest, and stress management aren’t just supportive—they’re essential in managing autoimmune conditions. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are seeking answers to persistent joint pain, this episode provides a clear, compassionate path to better understanding and managing chronic inflammation.  Find Dr. Olga PinkstonWhole Health RheumatologyMind Your Fibro PodcastResources recommended by Dr. Pinkston:Insight Timer App- free resource for meditation, yoga nidra, mindfulnessAmerican College of Rheumatology patient resourcesArthritis Foundation Healthy LivingDr. Andrew Weil's Anti-inflammatory DietAcademy of Nutrition and Dieteticsthestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at contact@thestartinggatepodcast.comFollow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastMore educational resources at Better Health LibraryThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.