Living Well with Alison Starling

Ain't Dead Yet CEO on joy, cancer and asking, "Why wait?"

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

What if joy isn't something we earn only after adversity, but something that helps us get through it?

“Joy isn't just a frivolous thing,” says Julie Lenzer, who describes herself as a cancer “thriver.”

Join Alison Starling for a conversation with Lenzer, an entrepreneur; former innovation leader in business (including at IBM Corp.), academia and government; public speaker; and co-founder and CEO of Ain't Dead Yet (ADY). She discusses her cancer diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer.

Lenzer also shares why she calls herself a "thriver" rather than a survivor, how her views on joy evolved during and after treatment, and why she believes people shouldn't wait for retirement, an empty nest or some future milestone to do the things they've always wanted to do. She asks: Why wait?

Plus, VHC Health's Shari Sitron, an oncology-certified social worker and director of the Reva and Sid Dewberry Cancer Resource Center, offers insight into the challenges patients and families often face after a cancer diagnosis. She explains why cancer care involves far more than medical support and how to find help throughout the journey.

If you or someone you love is navigating cancer, VHC Health’s Reva and Sid Dewberry Cancer Resource Center offers personalized support and survivorship resources to help patients and families live better during and after treatment.

VHC Health is becoming the region’s preferred community health system. With a teaching hospital and multiple primary and specialty care locations, we offer exceptional patient-centered care close to where our patients live and work. Consistently recognized for excellence, VHC Health is dedicated to meeting the needs of our diverse community.

Disclaimer

This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it are provided for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and does not create a patient-provider relationship. Seek the advice of your personal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding the information presented and before undertaking a new health care regimen.

Unless specifically stated in the podcast, the views expressed in this podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views of VHC Health. Participation in this podcast should not be implied as an endorsement of VHC Health or any particular organization, product or service.

Dr. Carole Samango-Sprouse: Children, screen time, anxiety, ADHD and X/Y chromosome variations

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Knowledge is power when it comes to giving children the support they need.

Join Alison Starling for a conversation about childhood anxiety, screen time, brain development and the growing role of genetics in helping families better understand how children and teens learn, grow and thrive. The episode also explores X and Y chromosome variations, which occur in about one in 500 births and can help explain some cases of ADHD, anxiety and reading disorders.

Meet the guests:

Dr. Carole Samango-Sprouse is the director of the Neurodevelopmental Diagnostic Center for Children, a NDT-trained neurodevelopmentalist, executive director and chief science officer of The Focus Foundation and a clinical professor of pediatrics at George Washington University. Drawing on decades of research and clinical experience, she shares practical insights for parents, grandparents and anyone invested in a child's well-being. She is the co-author of X & Y Chromosomal Variations: Hormones, Brain Development, and Neurodevelopmental Performance, a book used in more than 150 medical schools nationwide.

Dr. Allison Greenberg, dipABLM, NASM-CPT brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to whole person health in her role at VHC Health. With a background deeply rooted in family medicine and medical education, she has a passion for delivering comprehensive care and advancing patient well-being.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Greenberg or visit vhchealth.org to learn more about VHC Health's behavioral health, mental health and family medicine services.

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“Brewing in the brain:” Intervene before Alzheimer’s takes hold with Preventive Neurologist Dr. Kellyann Niotis

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Growing research suggests Alzheimer’s disease begins silently in the brain decades before the first symptoms appear.

Join Alison Starling as she hosts a conversation about brain health, preventing neurodegenerative diseases, what we can do today to protect cognitive function and how families can respond when memory concerns arise.

Meet the guests:

Dr. Kellyann Niotis is the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologist. She is a clinical assistant professor of neurology at Weill Cornell Medicine and the director of Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia Prevention Research at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases (IND). She also runs a private practice in New York City focused on early detection and personalized risk reduction strategies for diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia.

Dr. Usman Akhtar is an internal medicine physician and chief medical informatics officer at VHC Health. He specializes in heart failure, Alzheimer's, dementia and hypertension. He is also a distinguished 40 Under 40 honoree by the Washington Business Journal.

“There are 300 million people living right now with biomarkers that indicate they have Alzheimer's disease pathology brewing in their brain, but they don't have symptoms, and these people are prime candidates for prevention,” Niotis says.

Learn more about brain health, Alzheimer’s disease and healthy aging at VHC Health. You can explore neurological services, connect with specialists and access preventive care, educational programs and support for patients and caregivers.

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Space research and human health: A former NASA scientist and OB-GYN

Wed, 27 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Scientific discoveries in space are contributing to medical advancements that could transform human health.

Join Alison Starling in this episode as she explores what research beyond Earth is revealing about health care here at home, with a closer look at how those insights apply to women’s health, including bone and muscle strength.

Meet the guests:

Ellen Stofan, Ph.D., under secretary for science and research at the Smithsonian Institution and former chief scientist at NASA, shares how studying life beyond Earth is deepening our understanding of the human body and how we care for it. Widely published, she has received numerous honors, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and recognition by CNN as one of its “Extraordinary People of 2014.”

Dr. Elizabeth Brunn, an OB-GYN and fellowship-trained specialist in minimally invasive laparoscopic, robotic and complex gynecologic surgeries at VHC Health’s Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women’s Health, discusses the significant hormonal and metabolic changes that occur across a woman’s life. She also explains how conditions like endometriosis highlight the longstanding need for women’s health research. She was recently named a WBJ 40 Under 40 honoree, recognized for leadership and impact in advancing women's health care in the DC region.

Together, their perspectives illustrate how new knowledge across space, science and the medical field are informing the future of health care.

To learn more about the care and services available for women, visit VHC Health’s Center for Women’s Health. This space is dedicated to women’s health care and offers advanced technologies and therapies designed to support women at every stage of life. Our team is committed to providing coordinated, personalized care for the women in our community.

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Dr. Mary Claire Haver with straight talk on menopause care

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:50:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Menopause has long been something women silently endure. Not anymore!

Join Alison Starling in this episode as she speaks with two menopause doctors about what women need to know and the midlife decisions that could impact their long-term health and independence.

Meet the experts:

Dr. Mary Claire Haver, FACOG, OB‑GYN and Menopause Society certified practitioner, has become one of the most influential voices in menopause care nationwide. She is known for translating complex medical research into clear, practical advice that helps women achieve the best quality of life during perimenopause and post-menopause. Nicknamed the “Queen of Menopause” by Katie Couric, Haver is the bestselling author of “The New Menopause” and recently released “The New Perimenopause,” founder of Mary Claire Wellness and ThePauseLife.com, and host of the podcast unPAUSED.

Dr. Jessica Sommer, DO, FACOG, OB GYN and certified menopause practitioner with VHC Health’s Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women’s Health, shares insights from her hands-on experience caring for women in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia, highlighting the value of personalized care.

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Icon Joan Lunden on aging gracefully, caregiving and staying engaged

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Healthy aging doesn’t happen by chance, and it can look different for everyone. But few people model an active and engaged second half of life quite like Joan Lunden, the award winning journalist who has been a trusted voice in American homes for 50 years. Many people know her from Good Morning America, as a bestselling author, a fierce advocate for women’s health or from A Place for Mom commercials.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, Lunden shares her experiences with caregiving in the sandwich generation, battling breast cancer and reinvention. She just released her memoir, Joan: Life Beyond the Script, as she reflects on her career, aging and how she’s squeezing the most out of her life today.

Plus, hear from Dr. Michelle Lee, geriatric and internal medicine physician, VHC Health, on supporting healthy aging for yourself or the ones you love.

Tune in to hear more.

If you or a loved one is looking for care for adults age 60 and older, the care team at VHC Health is here to help. Serving the Washington, D.C. metro area, we understand the unique health needs of older adults and are committed to supporting your long-term health and independence. VHC Health doctors build lasting relationships with patients and coordinate personalized care that evolves with your needs. Schedule an appointment today. We hope today’s conversation encourages you to think proactively about your own wellness journey, to support the older adults in your life, and to learn more about the geriatric services available at VHC Health, for you, for life.

VHC Health is becoming the region’s preferred community health system. With a teaching hospital and multiple primary and specialty care locations, we offer exceptional patient-centered care close to where our patients live and work. Consistently recognized for excellence, VHC Health is dedicated to meeting the needs of our diverse community.

Disclaimer
This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it are provided for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and does not create a patient-provider relationship. Seek the advice of your personal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding the information presented and before undertaking a new health care regimen.

Unless specifically stated in the podcast, the views expressed in this podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views of VHC Health. Participation in this podcast should not be implied as an endorsement of VHC Health or any particular organization, product or service.

Washington Spirit CEO Kim Stone on leadership, club momentum and women’s health

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Join Kim Stone, the first official CEO of the Washington Spirit, and Dr. Christopher Walsh, a board certified internist at VHC Health Primary Care – Shirlington, as they discuss women’s health, wellness and performance at the highest levels across business and sports.

Plus, Stone, a recent honoree of the WBJ Women Who Mean Business, shares the main reason she chose to help lead the region’s professional women’s soccer team (hint: it started with Owner Michelle Kang).

Listen to this episode to learn more about:

Stone’s decades of sports leadership, including her years with the NBA’s Miami Heat, and what she learned from often being the only woman in the room
What it’s like to lead one of the most exciting teams as women’s sports gain fandom
The club’s comprehensive approach to women’s health care, including technology, sports psychology and nutrition
Getting fired up to support the team that made last year’s NWSL finals and continues to set attendance records
The role strength training, mobility and recovery play in preventing injuries whether you’re an athlete or an active professional
Simple habits for “thinking like an athlete” when it comes to your own health

The Washington Spirit will look to build on the club's back-to-back championship appearances when the team kicks off its 2026 campaign at Audi Field on Friday, March 13. Tickets to one of the greatest home environments in sports are available at WashingtonSpirit.com/tickets.

AARP’s Amy Goyer: Caring for aging parents and balancing a career

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

About 70% of caregivers between the ages of 18 and 64 balance work and caring for loved ones, according to AARP’s national family and caregiving expert Amy Goyer in this podcast episode of Living Well with Alison Starling.

For those in the “sandwich generation” — adults caring for aging parents and their young children — the responsibilities might feel insurmountable.

Join Goyer and VHC Health family medicine physician Dr. Dominique Gagnon as they explore the emotional, physical and financial realities of caregiving.

“One of the things I learned as a caregiver was, I can do anything, but I can't do everything,” Goyer says.

Listen to this episode to learn more about:

Goyer’s first-hand caregiving experiences, including financial challenges like bankruptcy
Self-care practices to help caregivers protect their well-being
Medical insights on preventive care, chronic conditions and communicating with health care providers
Steps adults can take to stay healthy and independent

“I think we need to acknowledge that as we get older, a loss of independence in a lot of aspects of our life is very stressful and it puts you in a place of vulnerability,” Gagnon says.

Women leaders breaking barriers — with NBC’s Kristen Welker

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Sponsored Content by VHC Health:

Join two barrier-breaking women in this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ.

NBC’s Kristen Welker, the first journalist of color and only the second woman to moderate “Meet the Press” opens up about navigating one of journalism’s most high-pressure roles while staying grounded. She reflects on the weight of making history, the pivotal moment of moderating the 2020 presidential debate and her personal journey with surrogacy.

Also featured is Sharon Brickhouse Martin, vice president of Health Services Integration at VHC Health, who shares her path from engineering to health care leadership. She discusses the challenges of being a woman in male-dominated fields and her commitment to mentoring the next generation.

Tune in for insights from these two inspiring leaders on thriving professionally, balancing motherhood and paving the way for others.

Learn more about how VHC Health is supporting women’s health at the Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women's Health, where personalized care, advanced technology, and community-focused services come together. Celebrating its second year, the Center provides personalized, community-based care in one convenient location and offers the most advanced technology and therapies available, aiming to help women and their families achieve better health outcomes.

What an unexpected case of shingles taught Entrepreneur Ali Fedotowsky-Manno

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Think shingles only affects people 50 and above? Think again.
If you’ve ever had chickenpox, you’re at risk.

When entrepreneur and former reality television star Ali Fedotowsky-Manno, 36 — best known as “The Bachelorette” in Season Six and as a contestant on Season 14 of "The Bachelor” — developed an itchy and painful rash, she thought it could’ve been from an insect bite or an adverse reaction to Botox.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Fedotowsky-Manno describes the intense pain she felt.

“My way of describing (the pain) to people — imagine somehow sticking your brain into an outlet and it's (like an) electrical current straight into your brain,” Fedotowsky-Manno said.

Health challenges can occur at any age. In this interview, Fedotowsky-Manno also shares her husband’s unexpected thyroid cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery process.

Alison Hall shares her breast cancer survival journey

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Alison Hall, national TV correspondent for “Inside Edition,” is known for capturing celebrity stories, but never expected one would save her own life. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at 32, when it was in its earliest stages, and has the actress Olivia Munn to thank.

After reporting on Munn’s diagnosis, Hall took the same breast cancer risk assessment test on camera. Her results came back higher than expected, leading Hall down a path she didn’t anticipate at that point in her life. If not for the simple, free test, her cancer may have gone unnoticed for a dangerously long time.

“Within the first few minutes of hanging up with my doctor, I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I have been handed a gift,’” Hall said. “That’s why I’m sharing my story — because I hope to do that for someone else.”

Listen to this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and the WBJ, to hear Hall recount her honest and deeply personal breast cancer survival journey.

Plus, hear from Stephanie Spaulding, a genetic counselor at VHC Health’s Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women’s Health, on the many breast health tools available beyond mammograms, the importance of early detection and encouraging local data.

Whether you're seeking the most advanced screening options or navigating through breast disease, VHC Health is your place for comprehensive breast care. We’re here to empower you with the knowledge, resources and services necessary to maintain optimal breast health. Find out how your risk can guide early detection and preventive care with VHC Health’s support. Schedule a visit today.

Former D.C. anchor Leon Harris on recovering from alcoholism

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Nearly a year after leaving NBC4 Washington following a public battle with alcohol addiction, former co-anchor Leon Harris is sober.

A veteran of more than 40 years in the news industry and a mainstay in Washington for nearly a decade, Harris stepped away to focus on his health and family.

Now, he’s finding a new way forward — one grounded in recovery, resilience and reinvention.

“You can't fall into the trap of thinking that you're the worst thing you ever did,” Harris said. “That's been a hard thing to accept and a hard thing to learn. But that's what this is all about.”

Listen as Harris shares his journey and what’s next in this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ. He’s joined by Dr. Allison Greenberg, a family medicine practitioner at VHC Health, who offers insights into supporting whole person health at any age, including preventing, treating and managing chronic diseases, such as addiction.

“It's easy to make big changes for a week,” Greenberg said. “But if you're looking to make sustainable changes and get healthy over a lifetime, the smaller changes can really make a huge difference.”

Explore VHC Health’s impactful community programs that support your health and wellness. Take part in fitness and healthy lifestyle classes, diabetes and nutrition education, pre-operative joint replacement sessions, and virtual talks like our expert-led discussion on inflammation and nutrition. Most offerings are free and designed to meet you where you are on your wellness journey. Learn more.

The value of mindfulness in politics and business —With Doro Bush Koch & Tricia Reilly Koch

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What’s the key to keeping your competitive edge? Start by staying in the moment.

“It’s a practice, like learning the piano,” says Dorothy (“Doro”) Bush Koch, New York Times bestselling author of “My Father, My President” and co-founder of BB&R Wellness Consulting, in the latest episode of Living Well with Alison Starling.

“And for those who feel like they’re going to lose their edge [if they slow down], there may be some long-term problems that come from that. Constant stress definitely opens you up for disease.”

In this conversation, Bush Koch joins her fellow founding partner, Tricia Reilly Koch, to share the value wellness practices have added to their lives, and Dr. Linda Lang, medical director of Behavioral Health Services at VHC Health, discusses how people can use mindfulness to manage the demands of work and life over time.

“When you’re going out into the business world and managing yourself against all sorts of stress, you need a way to ground yourself again,” Lang said.

Listen to this episode to learn more about:

The origins of BB&R Wellness Consulting

Why staying in the present matters (particularly when political campaigns are in full swing)
How to benefit from meditation even if you can’t sit quietly
What it means to “anchor” and how to do it
How to combat loneliness, one of the biggest drivers of illness

Explore VHC Health’s impactful community programs that support your health and wellness. Take part in fitness and healthy lifestyle classes, diabetes and nutrition education, pre-operative joint replacement sessions and virtual talks like our expert-led discussion on inflammation and nutrition. Most offerings are free and designed to meet you where you are on your wellness journey. Learn more.

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Commanders’ QB Jayden Daniels talks pressure, new season and waffles

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Washington Commanders’ Quarterback Jayden Daniels has maintained the same pregame ritual for as long as he can remember: waffles for breakfast, warm up with one of his coaches and a phone call to his father so they can pray before he plays.

“It’s something I’ve been doing my whole life,” Daniels said. “And then I’ll put the towel over my head and just get in that mode. When I take the towel off, it’s time to go out there and do whatever it takes to win the game.”

An NFL superstar after his breakout rookie season and that now-legendary Hail Mary touchdown, Daniels joins Dr. Christopher Walsh, a board-certified internist at VHC Health Primary Care – Shirlington, for an episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast from VHC Health and WBJ. They discuss Daniels’ ability to stay steady under pressure, preparing for a championship, the future of the franchise and the importance of men’s health and preventative care.

Why mental health matters for Daniels and his team
Focusing on what you can do today to be healthier tomorrow
Walsh’s thoughts on medical misinformation
The value of vulnerability, in sports and in life

This conversation is also available on YouTube.

VHC Health is here to provide the services you need to prioritize men’s health. It's easy to put off checkups, but taking care of your well-being is essential. VHC Health offers a range of services to help men stay on top of their health, bringing community-centered, high-quality care closer to where you live and work. Whether you need a routine checkup or specialized care, VHC Health is ready to assist you.

CNN’s Pamela Brown on postpartum anxiety and returning to work after maternity leave, with insights from a VHC Health OB-GYN specialist

Wed, 28 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

When CNN’s Pamela Brown lost her mom during the height of the pandemic, she felt “unmoored, like I had lost my anchor in life and I was adrift in the ocean.” Not long after giving birth to her second child, she was hit with severe postpartum anxiety — fueled by grief, fluctuating hormones and sleep deprivation.

“The fear inside of me was palpable. I literally felt like I didn't have control of myself,” Brown says.

In this new episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Brown is joined by Dr. Kelly Orzechowski, a maternal and fetal medicine and obstetrics and gynecology specialist at VHC Health, who shares her seven-year journey to get pregnant and medical and personal advice for new moms.

“I think we need to stop treating mental health as separate from physical health,” Orzechowski says.

Listen to this episode to learn about:

How Brown balances parenting with her high-profile TV career — and what it’s like to work with the legendary Wolf Blitzer
The surprising diagnosis that revealed Brown was dealing with more than postpartum — and how she overcame it
Why Orzechowski believes women shouldn’t feel pressure to “bounce back” after giving birth
How VHC Health supports women through pregnancy, childbirth and the transition into motherhood, whether they’re returning to work after maternity leave or not

To learn more about the comprehensive support available during postpartum recovery, from bonding in a private mom-and-baby suite to expert breastfeeding assistance and pediatric visits, VHC Health is here to help. VHC Health provides essential resources to ensure both mother and baby receive the care they need, with daily updates from our care team and personalized attention for a smooth recovery and transition.

Living life boldly with Usher syndrome — featuring Rebecca Alexander and VHC Health’s Dr. Linda Lang

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Less than 1% of the world's population is believed to be living with Usher syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that combines hearing and vision loss. Among them is Rebecca Alexander — a disability rights advocate, psychotherapist, award-winning author, sought-after speaker, fitness coach and extreme athlete who has completed the Alcatraz swim and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro.

Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at age 12, Alexander struggled to see the blackboard at school. By college, her hearing had also worsened, and it was determined she had Usher syndrome.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Alexander and Dr. Linda Lang, VHC Health’s medical director for the behavioral health service line, discuss navigating life-altering health conditions.

“Living well means being able to develop comfort with discomfort. The more we try to avoid it, the more we feel it,” Alexander says. “That’s such a part of what it means to live with Usher syndrome. But that’s the human condition where opposing truths can coexist.”

Listen to this episode to learn about:

Alexander’s journey through progressive blindness and deafness from her teens into her 40s (4:43)
Processing a confluence of grief, profound loss and tremendous joy (10:47)
How Alexander balances being present, mindfulness and living life boldly (15:44)
Supporting loved ones who are dealing with major health disorders (23:37)
The importance of prioritizing mental health and acknowledging difficult emotions (27:18)

VHC Health provides free support groups and sessions for individuals facing challenges such as Alzheimer’s care, cancer, postpartum and more. Join a community of support, gain valuable resources and connect with others. Discover upcoming sessions.

Internet personality Jeannette Reyes on PCOS, infertility, IVF and advocating for your reproductive health

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

When she was just a teenager, Jeannette Reyes, former FOX 5 news anchor and now a prominent internet personality, sensed that her irregular periods might be hinting at a larger issue.

“I felt like something was off, and I couldn't quite pinpoint it — to the point where I pushed my mom to take me to the doctor and figure out what might be going on,” Reyes said in the latest episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ.

It took years of doctors’ appointments and struggling with infertility for Reyes to receive her PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) diagnosis. After successfully undergoing IVF treatment, Reyes and her husband Robert Burton are now happily raising 2-year-old Bella and enjoying more time with family as TV and internet sensations.

“Advocate for yourself,” Reyes encourages people in similar situations. “You're going to have some doctors — who might be well-meaning — who will say, ‘No, you don't really fit the profile,’ or will brush off some of your concerns. Push for answers.”

Tune in to this episode to learn more about:

Reyes’ journey toward her PCOS diagnosis (3:40)
The importance of checking fertility benefits when changing jobs, even as a young professional (7:48)
What it was like working in a very public sphere while going through IVF treatment (13:53)
Why Reyes and Burton left their jobs as news anchors (15:49)
Reyes’ favorite memory from her time creating “Baby News Network” videos (19:18)
Why Reyes started a fundraiser for a children’s home in the Dominican Republic (23:03)

If you or someone you know is dealing with menstrual irregularities, PCOS, endometriosis, or fertility challenges, VHC Health and its Center for Women’s Health is here to help. Whether you're seeking fertility support, menopause management, or adolescent-friendly services, VHC Health's gynecologists, obstetricians, and care teams are here to partner with you for a full spectrum of services designed to support and empower women’s health.

Heart health: It’s not just a man’s issue — with Golden Bachelorette Joan Vassos and VHC Health cardiologist

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0400

The first-ever Golden Bachelorette may have shared her heart on national television, but Joan Vassos has had a personal connection to heart health since she entered motherhood.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Vassos opens up about her daughter's congenital heart defect. Dr. Preya Simlote, a general cardiologist with VHC Health, also shares expert advice on caring for your heart at every stage. Plus, you’ll get an inside scoop on Vassos’s life with fiancé Chock Chapple and what it was like being the star of ABC’s hit show.

Heart disease is often considered a man’s problem, but it poses a big threat to women, too. “It’s (women’s) leading cause of death,” Vassos said. “So let’s start focusing on that early on, especially in the years we go through menopause.”

Tune into this episode to learn about:

How Vassos navigated her daughter’s progressive heart disease, which ignited her passion for serving the American Heart Association (5:09)
How Vassos stays healthy (12:36)
How heart attack symptoms present differently for men and women (26:44)
The four key numbers to know — and act on — for heart health (29:41)
Strategies to prevent heart disease (31:29)
The most exciting advancements in heart disease prevention and care (33:37)

Protect and improve your heart health with expert care from VHC Health cardiologists. VHC Health provides personalized evaluations, diagnostic tests, and treatments, including lifestyle changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures. Advanced diagnostic tools help detect issues early, while VHC Health’s CVICU offers 24/7 specialized care for complex conditions. Look to VHC Health for comprehensive cardiovascular care from experts who make you feel like family. From prevention to diagnosis and treatment, count on our team to help you live a heart-healthy life.

Measure health beyond the scale: WebMD’s chief medical officer and VHC Health doctor simplify GLP-1 drugs

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Popular weight loss medications are playing a role in the fight against obesity, but are they a help or hinderance in the long term? “The number on your scale is not your only measure of health,” says WebMD’s chief medical officer, Dr. John Whyte.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Whyte and Dr. Arshad Ali from VHC Health Bariatric & Metabolic Health Center delve into medical weight management, discuss whether obesity is worsening or decreasing, and simplify the information surrounding GLP-1 prescription drugs.

“This (obesity) is a disease, not a moral failing or lack of self-control,” explains Ali. “This is a medical problem that needs to be treated correctly.”

Listen to this episode to learn about:

How GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy work in relation to obesity management
The most common potential side effects
The average percentage of weight patients usually gain back when they stop taking their medication
Micro-dosing for people who just want to lose 10 to 20 pounds
How long you really have to exercise each day to make a difference (it’s less than you might think)
Which single lifestyle change impacts 90% to 95% of the weight loss formula

Learn more about VHC Health’s Medical Weight Management program. Our bariatrician works with patients to create personalized treatment plans that incorporate nutrition, physical activity and behavioral changes, with medication options when appropriate. With support from a clinical psychologist and dietitian, and seamless integration with our bariatric surgery team, VHC Health offers a comprehensive approach to achieving your weight and health goals, whether through in-person or telehealth visits.

Hilary Phelps' inspiring journey to sobriety: The hard truths about alcohol

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Once the nation’s fastest swimmer in her age group, Hilary Phelps’ life took an unexpected path at the age of 14 when she tried alcohol for the first time. That one seemingly small decision opened the door to a 15-year battle with addiction.

After college, she “just became a wine drinker,” — which is a common rationale in today’s wine culture. Her journey toward recovery began at 29 when she courageously took a significant step toward healing.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Phelps and Dr. Linda Lang, VHC Health’s medical director for the behavioral health service line, discuss the hard truths about alcohol.

“What if there’s one woman who hears my story — one woman who’s drinking, maybe too much wine … who decides not to drink today?” Phelps asked. “What that does for her family, her children, her community, her profession — that ripple effect of one woman getting sober is so powerful.”

Listen to this episode to learn about:

How Phelps confronted the underlying issues that led to alcoholism and discovered she wasn’t alone
What kept her quiet for 15 years
How women and men struggle with alcohol and recover differently
Being in a family of athletes (yes, Michael Phelps is her brother)
Determining how much alcohol is too much
The lesser-known dangers of alcohol, such as increasing the risk of six cancers
Signs that point to alcoholism and how to approach the topic with a loved one
Practical strategies for simply cutting back or not drinking at all, including GLP-1 medications

Learn more about addiction treatment at VHC Health, where you can explore our comprehensive services. Treatment often begins with a medically controlled detox process, followed by personalized care, including options such as our inpatient treatment program, residential treatment at trusted facilities or intensive outpatient care. Reach out today to take the first step toward healing.

D.C.’s celebrity chef Carla Hall on carrying the Alzheimer’s gene, staying healthy and self-advocacy

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Although there have been advancements in treatments for dementia-related diseases, a cure remains elusive. This cause is personal for the D.C.’s very own Food Network and Top Chef star Carla Hall who carries the gene for late onset Alzheimer’s. Her grandmother battled Alzheimer’s before she passed away at the age of 96 and her 84-year-old mother has dementia.

In this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, Hall and Dr. Usman Akhtar, internal medicine physician and chief medical informatics officer at VHC Health, explore Alzheimer’s, including their family histories and the importance of nutrition, hydration, exercise and self-advocacy.

When Hall visits the doctor, she’s armed with information, ready to actively participate in her health journey. She works alongside her doctor as a “co-pilot.” Akhtar encourages families to get involved. “Have a family member either join a call or be part of the visit. Your family member is one of the strongest advocates for you — that's a superpower.”

Listen to this episode to learn about:

Reaching the age of 60 (or “sexty” as Hall likes to say) and what she’s doing to stay healthy
How Hall preps her body before she consumes a lot of sugar on baking shows like Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking on the Food Network
A possible link between Alzheimer's and menopause
Practical tips for diet and exercise to boost cognitive and physical health
Understanding Alzheimer's risk factors and the connection between gut, brain and heart health
Advice and resources for caregivers

Learn about VHC Health’s support groups for Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers, which provide a safe space for patients and caregivers to share experiences, learn coping strategies, discover helpful resources and find a sense of community.

VHC Health also offers a Healthy Aging program, creating opportunities for individuals to thrive in their later years. Visit the VHC Health Senior Health Department for outstanding services and programs designed to help you age safely and independently while staying informed and engaged.

Katie Couric and VHC Health surgeon talk breast cancer: “Ladies, find out if your breasts are dense”

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Two fierce champions for the early detection of breast cancer join this episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, a podcast brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ. You won’t want to miss Starling’s interview with these trailblazing women:

Dr. Molly Sebastian, a distinguished breast surgeon with VHC Health Physicians — Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women's Health
Katie Couric, iconic journalist, best-selling author, co-founder of Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) and founder of Katie Couric Media (KCM)

“I am really on a tear,” Couric says in the episode. “Ladies, find out if your breasts are dense. Then find out if there’s additional screening available ..."

“Breast cancer is sneaky. We think of it as kind of being a silent killer,” Sebastian says. “That’s why mammograms are so important.”

Listen to this episode to learn about:

Couric’s personal breast cancer journey and advice for women with dense breasts
How breast cancer changed Couric’s menopause journey and what she’s up to these days
Sebastian’s passion for providing comprehensive, personalized breast health care and improving access to genetic testing
Common symptoms of breast cancer (and if tenderness is one of them)
Different types of breast cancer and the latest advancements in treatment
How far back to look into family history
The survivability rate of early detected breast cancer in stage I

At VHC Health, you'll find the support and expertise you need for every step of your breast health journey. Learn more.

The menopause moment: Alison Starling interviews Dr. Jen Ashton and VHC Health’s Dr. Amanda Rohn and Dr. Terri Remy

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

There was a time when women whispered about “the change” and fear of hormone replacement therapy swept across the mid-life women’s community. Today, the culture has shifted, and menopause is having a moment.

In this premiere podcast episode of Living Well with Alison Starling, brought to you by VHC Health and WBJ, three experts come together to discuss what has become a hot topic, including two certified menopause practitioners who are leading this care at the new VHC Health Outpatient Pavilion and a national household name:

Dr. Jen Ashton, former ABC chief medical correspondent and co-host on Good Morning America, bestselling author and founder and CEO of Ajenda, a women’s wellness company addressing the challenges of menopause health and weight management
Dr. Amanda Rohn, FACOG, MSCP, obstetrician and gynecologist, VHC Health Physicians — Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women's Health
Dr. Terri Remy, FACP, MSCP, primary care and internal medicine, VHC Health Physicians

Listen to this episode to learn about:

Hormone replacement therapy — the misinterpreted data, the real risks, who makes a good candidate and what it can prevent and treat
Holistic, evidence-based care at VHC Health’s Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women’s Health
Common and uncommon symptoms, from hot flashes to frozen shoulder
Misinformation online about menopause
The importance of treating the body with grace and kindness
“Nutritional gynecology”
Menopause, Ozempic and other GLP-1 weight loss medications

You can count on the women's services at VHC Health to connect you with everything you need to manage your health throughout every stage of life. You’ll build a trusting, long-lasting relationship with our women's health experts, who prioritize your health and wellness.

Introducing: Living Well with Alison Starling

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Coming soon, VHC Health and the Washington Business Journal will launch a new podcast called Living Well with Alison Starling. Join the former ABC 7News anchor and Emmy Award winner for exclusive conversations with health care advocates and experts on today’s most timely health topics.

You’ll discover what you need to know when making decisions about your well-being and how to empower yourself with knowledge to live well.

Episodes will drop every month. Subscribe now!

To learn about VHC Health’s community-centered, top-quality health care, visit vhchealth.org.