The Med List

This week on The Med List, Kevin and Donna sit down with Dr. Richard Harris—physician, pharmacist, and author of White Coat, Heavy Soul—to unpack a big question:Why aren’t patients actually getting better? From overprescribing to overlooked lifestyle factors, Dr. Harris shares why true health goes far beyond medications—and how prevention, habits, and personal responsibility play a crucial role. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why simplifying (not adding) medications can be powerfulHow small daily habits create long-term health outcomesThe importance of taking ownership of your health journeyWhat needs to change in today’s healthcare systemIf you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or dependent on the system—this conversation will challenge your perspective and empower you to take control.

In this episode of The MedList, Kevin and Donna talk with Dr. Brad St. Martin about a common—but often unspoken—issue: pelvic health. From incontinence to prolapse, many women experience symptoms that impact daily life but assume are “just part of aging.” This episode breaks down why these issues happen, what treatments are available, and why you don’t have to live with them. If it’s affecting your life, it’s worth addressing—and help is available.

In this powerful episode of The MedList, Kevin and Donna sit down with Shubu and Mimi Mukherjee to share a deeply personal story of severe pain, repeated misdiagnoses, and the long road to discovering that a medication may have been at the center of it all. What began as recovery after bypass surgery turned into months of debilitating chest pain, fear, and unanswered questions—until careful observation, persistence, and pattern recognition helped reveal a possible adverse drug reaction hiding in plain sight. Together, they explore what patients and families can do when something feels wrong, why medication side effects should never be dismissed too quickly, and how journaling symptoms, asking better questions, and finding clinicians who truly listen can make all the difference. This is a moving conversation about patient advocacy, caregiver resilience, the limits of certainty in medicine, and the life-changing importance of being heard.

Pain is rarely as simple as “fix the sore spot.” In this episode, the team from Clash Physical Therapy and Health Services shares how they help patients connect the dots between pain, movement, foot mechanics, pelvic floor health, stress, sleep, and overall lifestyle. Kevin and Donna explore why so many people get stuck in cycles of flare-ups and frustration—and how a more personalized, whole-body approach can help them move forward. This is a thoughtful conversation for anyone who wants to understand their body better and heal with confidence.

Insurance jargon makes most people run the other way—until they need it. In this episode of The MedList, Kevin and Donna sit down with Kristen Rivers, JD (SVP of Sales, Pareto Health) to break down employer-sponsored insurance in plain English. They explore why costs keep rising, what “ownership vs. policyholder” really means, how transparency changes everything, and practical ways employers and employees can work together to build better benefits—without sacrificing care.

What if technology could make healthcare feel more personal instead of more complicated? In this episode of The Med List, Kevin and Donna talk with Percipio Health CEO and co-founder Eric Rock about how artificial intelligence and smartphones can support patients and clinicians without replacing the human connection at the heart of care.Eric shares how his work has evolved from improving efficiency in emergency departments to building tools that help people stay healthier at home—using technology that’s already in their hands. Together, they explore how AI can help patients feel more supported between visits, how care teams can stay connected to what really matters in a person’s daily life, and why trust must come before innovation.From scanning vitals with a simple selfie to helping clinicians better understand medication use and mental well-being, this conversation shows how AI can be used thoughtfully—to listen, to guide, and to bring patients and providers closer together.This episode isn’t about machines taking over healthcare.It’s about using technology to make care more compassionate, more accessible, and more centered on the people who need it most.

Dr. Brad Anderson—AT&T Endowed Professor of Telemedicine at Oklahoma State University (OSU)—joins The Med List to show what virtual care looks like when it’s built for real-world rural medicine. We unpack how OSU places remote clinicians throughout rural communities to reduce costs and keep care close to home. You’ll also hear how school-based telehealth is improving attendance and speeding up treatment, why “shared visits” allow family members to join from anywhere, and how wearables + AI tools could reshape workflow without losing the human touch.

After a personal hormone “wake-up call” that led to 10 medications and ultimately surgery, Melinda Fowler — The Hormonal Pharmacist — set out to change how women understand hormones, preimentopause and menopause. If you’ve ever been told “your labs are normal” but you feel anything but normal, know this episode is for you. Women are often dismissed during perimenopause and menopause because of a perfect storm of historical, educational, and systemic failures — not because their symptoms aren’t real. We unpack the fallout of the WHI study, how to test hormones correctly, and how to make informed decisions about HRT—without fear, hype, or guesswork.

In this season kickoff of The MedList, we’re joined by Dr. Benjamin Schwartz—orthopedic surgeon turned physician executive and SVP at Commons Clinic—to explore what happens when specialty care is built around outcomes, not volume. We talk about the real-world shifts behind value-based care: optimizing patients before surgery, reducing complications through smarter medication strategies, and how weight loss can dramatically change joint health. Dr. Schwartz also shares how AI and simple tools like automated post-op texts can extend the doctor-patient relationship beyond the clinic—improving recovery, preventing avoidable ER visits, and bringing trust back to care.

 This is the last week to review and enroll in Medicare Open Enrollment for 2026! Learn about changes and important items to consider when picking a plan. And while you have your med list in front of you, it’s a great time to have a medication review.

Learn how an entire telehealth team is Impacting patient care through better access and health outcomes

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Jennifer Mondillo, Clinical Associate Professor and Track Coordinator for the Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner program at Villanova University. With expertise spanning geriatrics, neurology, and healthcare leadership, Dr. Mondillo shares how emotional intelligence and effective leadership can transform the quality of care for aging populations. From her years of teaching and research to her hands-on clinical experience, Dr. Mondillo offers wisdom on bridging the gap between knowledge and compassionate practice.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brian Freeman, Foot and Ankle Surgeon and founder of a new platform transforming access to specialized foot care. After more than a decade in surgery, Dr. Freeman saw a hidden crisis: vulnerable and elderly individuals suffering from preventable foot issues due to lack of access. His solution? Empowering nurses with the tools, training, and support to bring compassionate care directly to patients. We talk about dignity, innovation, and what it means to take the right step toward better care.

On The Med List, we’ve had the privilege of interviewing incredible guests from across the medical field — but today, we’re turning the mic around. In this light-hearted episode, you’ll get to know the voices behind the show: our hosts Kevin and Donna, and our producer, Tim.We’re pulling back the curtain to share our stories, passions, and what drives us both personally and professionally. You’ll also hear the heart behind why we started The Med List — and our hope for how this podcast will impact healthcare professionals and patients alike.

This episode was recorded on 1/13/25 with guests Cheryl A. Sadowski, B.Sc.(Pharm), Pharm.D., BCGP, FCSHP, CHE, And Roni Kraut, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry.

Women experience profound shifts across every stage of life—from the perinatal period to perimenopause—that deeply affect mental health. Hormones, stress, shifting priorities, and the demands of modern life all play a role. In this episode of The MedList Podcast, we’re joined by Erin Tanner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C, a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and one of the nation’s leading experts in women’s mental health.With nearly 30 years of clinical experience, Erin specializes in integrated care that blends traditional medicine with holistic well-being. She shares insights on managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and burnout, and offers practical strategies to help women find balance and purpose through life’s transitions.Listen in for a compassionate, expert-level conversation that empowers women—and those who support Women experience profound shifts across every stage of life—from the perinatal period to perimenopause—that deeply affect mental health. Hormones, stress, shifting priorities, and the demands of modern life all play a role. In this episode of The MedList Podcast, we’re joined by Erin Tanner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C, a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and one of the nation’s leading experts in women’s mental health.With nearly 30 years of clinical experience, Erin specializes in integrated care that blends traditional medicine with holistic well-being. She shares insights on managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and burnout, and offers practical strategies to help women find balance and purpose through life’s transitions.Listen in for a compassionate, expert-level conversation that empowers women—and those who support them - with tools for resilience, healing, and hope.

Family caregiving can be one of the most meaningful—and most overwhelming—roles a person will ever take on. In this episode, we’re joined by Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD, a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, family therapist, and longtime caregiver advocate. For the past 11 years, Barry has been the trusted family caregiving columnist for AARP.org, where he has guided millions with his compassionate expertise. He is also the author and coauthor of several influential caregiving books, including his newest release, The AARP Caregiver Answer Book (Guilford, 2025).Listen in as Barry shares both professional insights and personal experiences from his own journey caring for parents with Alzheimer’s and dementia. You’ll learn about the emotional realities caregivers face, strategies to maintain resilience, and resources that offer real help and hope.We also highlight Barry’s work with the Well Spouse Association, Health Management Associates, and his dedication to supporting caregivers nationwide. Whether you are caring for a loved one now, or want to better understand the challenges caregivers face, this episode provides compassionate, expert-level answers.

Between 2019 and 2025, a groundbreaking multi-year analysis uncovered just how much value is hidden in the medications that often go to waste—and how reclaiming them transforms lives. In this episode, we explore the ripple effect of medication recovery programs like RemediChain. From patients who gain access to costly treatments at no charge, to insurers who save when patients can stick to their regimens, to families relieved from the crushing financial weight of diseases like cancer—the impact is far-reaching. We also take a closer look at what kinds of drugs are most frequently wasted, revealing unique insights into cancer treatment trends and the hidden costs of our healthcare system.

In this episode, we sit down with Kellie Hamilton, BSN, RN, HN—surgical intensive care nurse and holistic nutrition coach—to explore how clinical expertise and plant-based nutrition can work together to improve health. Kellie shares how she helps busy individuals lower their BMI, improve lab values, and prevent or manage chronic disease through sustainable lifestyle changes. She also dives into practical strategies you can use in and out of the kitchen to make lasting improvements in your own health.

https://www.deerparkdiesel.com/preferred-customer-programIn this episode, Senior Living Advisor and educator Laurie Cashman shares her journey from leading an assisted living community to teaching gerontology and psychology in the classroom. With over 25 years of experience in senior care, education, and advocacy, Laurie offers practical insights on navigating senior living decisions, supporting loved ones with dementia, and finding compassionate ways to approach life’s later chapters.

Dr. John Hsu, an anesthesiologist and entrepreneur, will share with us his groundbreaking work on reducing the harm of opioids and pain treatment.  Learn more about innovative measures to reduce opioid addiction before it can become an addiction.

Hearing is an important part of your healthcare visits and how patients learn about their health conditions and instructions for best outcomes. What happens when there is difficulty in hearing? 

Dr. Dung Trinh is a nationally recognized leader in brain health and preventive medicine, but his work stretches far beyond the clinic. As founder of TongueOut and a champion for global medical missions, Dr. Trinh shares how he's combining science, service, and entrepreneurship to bring healing to underserved communities around the world. From treating Alzheimer’s locally to disaster zones abroad, this conversation is a reminder that healthcare is most powerful when it’s human, hopeful, and holistic.

In this episode, we’re joined by Eric Arzubi, MD — psychiatrist, mental health advocate, and CEO of Frontier Psychiatry. Dr. Arzubi shares how his team is transforming mental health care through strategic collaboration, cutting-edge telepsychiatry, and a deep commitment to serving rural communities. From provider training to innovative care models, discover how Frontier Psychiatry is removing barriers and expanding access where it’s needed most. Learn more at frontier.care

Join us for a conversation with Jeff Harrell, PharmD — CEO of Cascadia Pharmacy Group and President of the NCPA — as we explore how community pharmacies are reshaping healthcare delivery. With over 40 locations across the Pacific Northwest, Jeff shares how independent pharmacies are expanding services, bridging rural care gaps, and driving innovation through collaboration. From sustainable reimbursement to creative partnerships, this episode unpacks the future of pharmacy at the frontlines of patient care.

In this episode, we sit down with Cynthia Austin, NBC-HWC, whose journey from debilitating chronic pain to healing and hope is nothing short of powerful. Once walking with a cane and unable to work for over 15 years, Cynthia found lasting relief by learning how the brain and nervous system create pain. Now a nationally board-certified health and wellness coach and founder of My Pain Coach, LLC, she helps others do what she once thought was impossible—change their experience with pain. If you're looking for real hope and practical insight, this conversation is for you.

Learn about the amazing work of non-profit pharmacies serving those uninsured and allowing for positive public health outcomes.

Dr. Jason Giles shares his journey with addiction and outlines effective treatment approaches for this issue. He will discuss the steps he has taken in his practice to help others in their recovery and emphasize the importance of deprescribing.Additionally, we will engage in a conversation about what patients, caregivers, families, and support systems should be aware of, and how they can provide support to those struggling with addiction and substance use disorders.

Join us for an uplifting conversation and awareness of women’s health. Learn about gynecological cancers and their relation to breast cancer. Become empowered with knowledge. We all have women in our lives- this conversation could save a life! 

Music to heal! Join us as we speak with Olivia Barnaclo, MT-BC, LPMT Music Therapist and learn about how this therapy can help.

Join us on this episode to discuss a significant issue: medication waste. We are joined by our partner and guest, Dr. Michell Zulu, the Chief Pharmacy Officer at RemediChain. We will discuss everything from how pharmaceutical waste happens to what their team is doing to make a difference. Most importantly, we will cover how you can both help & benefit from their work.

Telehealth stands at a critical inflection point between technological capability and human necessity. Our guest, Dr. Eve Cunningham, a Chief Medical Officer at the forefront of remote patient monitoring, breaks down the current landscape of virtual care in America, discusses innovative approaches to the healthcare staffing crisis, reveals how smart technology is improving care while reducing costs, and shares her vision for a future where comprehensive healthcare happens wherever patients are.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Join us for a conversation with care management expert Sarah Bourque RN, MSN, CMC, on how healthcare consumers can benefit from care management and how providers can leverage their particular expertise.

We visit with Providence executive, Dr. Eve Cunningham, MD, to talk about what her health system is doing to address the global shortage of clinicians. We dive into Eve's background and how the technology she is building and deploying can help clinicians more effectively see more patients.

Have you encountered difficulties in finding care options for an older family member? You know there must be more options out there, but where do you begin? We had a great conversation about Age-Friendly Health Systems using the 4Ms with Dr. Terry Fulmer and Dr. Jane Carmody on the Med List Podcast. Dr. Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, is the President of The John A. Hartford Foundation in New York City, an organization dedicated to improving care for older adults. Dr. Jane Carmody, DNP, MBA, RN, FAAN, serves as a senior program officer at The John A. Hartford Foundation. Thank you for joining us for this engaging discussion on the Med List Podcast!

Join us to discuss topics that have touched nearly every family. Dealing with pain and mental health while weighing the therapy choices can be hard enough, but add substance use disorder concerns and a lack of training for the healthcare world can compound the issues for both patients and clinicians. Our guest has a unique perspective to help clarify best steps for all of us.

In this episode we discuss the waste in health care and what is being done to identify and correct it. Our expert guest, Judith Garber, Senior Policy Analyst at the Lown Institute is a must listen.

In this episode we visit with health plan and benefits adviser, Cristy Gupton. We jump in to explore why health care benefits and coverage is ripe with misinformation and excessive costs and what you should know as a patient or clinician.

In this episode we visit with one of the leaders of deprescribing.org, Lisa McCarthy, to jump into, you guessed it, deprescribing. Some topics will include prescribing cascades, if physicians need more education on medication management, and how patients can evaluate their own med list more easily.

In this episode we talk about a care setting that is becoming increasingly important for families and the healthcare system. We have an aging population with increasing medical complexity and less health care professionals to care for us. Optimizing medications has never been more important to relieve strain on the healthcare system and increase our quality of life away from home.

In this episode we have a world expert in diabetes, Dr. Joshua Neumiller, join us to help update patients and clinicians on the multitude of recent changes in diabetes care. Be sure to bring your notepad.

In this episode we talk with wellness expert, football coach, and fitness historian, Mike Waters. We discuss how going from making a healthy choice to developing a healthy behavior is a process and how behavioral psychology plays a major role in achieving and sustaining fitness and wellness goals.

On this episode of The Med List we visit with two innovators in patient experience and pharmacy team utilization to talk about how the expectations of the pharmacy experience is evolving for both patients and partnering clinicians.

On this episode of The Med List we visit with one of the pioneers of deprescribing to talk about how to safely and effectively remove drugs from a patient’s pill box.

We often hear that movement is medicine, but how do you apply it to your unique health situation. Join us and our expert guest, Leah Halloran, to discuss her incredible work creating exercise programs for health conditions. Particularly great episode for those interested in Parkinson's and other diseases connected to movement disorders.

We often fool ourselves into thinking a quick medication "fix" will do the trick, but quality movement is what we should believe. Join us and our expert guest, Janet Huehls, MS, ACSM-CEP, CHWC, to discuss how to get moving.

Most of us are aware that our senior population is overmedicated, but that doesn't just happen when we apply for Medicare. Pill burden is a process and in mental health it is getting worse for our young adults. Join us and our expert guest, Shawn Gill, PharmD, as we talk about this issue and how to address it.

Nothing feels connected when we consider the medication list. This is one of the reasons The Med List was started. Join us as we visit with our expert guest, Ahunna Freeman, PharmD, BCGP, as we discuss the disconnects she has seen and how she is trying to connect the dots for patients and primary care providers.

With care personalization and patient choice growing in health care, it is important for health care professionals with different training to know the skills and knowledge of various health professions. How do they do this and what is being improved to help patients receive better care? Join us and our expert guest, Stephanie Conway-Allen, to discuss educating the team.

So many things can make a drug a logical choice for one patient, but not another. What about something that impacts every cell in our body and is makes s all unique, our genetics? Join us and expert guest, Lusia Fomuso PharmD, MPH, CPGX , a TEDx speaker and pharmacist, as we talk about the opportunities and limitations.