What the Health is Happening?

Gut Health 2

Join Dr. Valda Crowder as she breaks down everything you need to know about your gallbladder, liver, and pancreas: what they do, what goes wrong, and how to protect them. From fatty liver disease and gallbladder attacks to pancreatitis and elevated enzymes, Dr. V answers real listener questions with the straight talk and practical advice you need to stay informed and empowered about your gut health.

Gut Health Impacts the Whole Body

Your gut does more than digest food—it plays a critical role in immunity, energy levels, mood, and overall wellness. In Part 1 of our Gastrointestinal Health series, we lay the foundation for understanding how your digestive system works and why gut health is essential to whole-body health.
In this episode, Dr. V explores:
The basics of gastrointestinal anatomy and function
Common signs and symptoms of gut imbalance
How diet, stress, medications, and lifestyle impact digestion
The gut–brain connection and its role in inflammation and disease
Whether you’re experiencing digestive concerns or simply want to optimize your health, this episode offers practical insights to help you better understand your body from the inside out.
Tune in and start your journey toward better gut health—this is just the beginning.
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Psychological Safety for Consumers in Today's Climate

In an era of relentless news cycles, political divisiveness, and constant digital overwhelm, how do we protect our mental health while staying informed and engaged? Join Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V), a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she explores the critical topic of psychological safety in today's challenging climate.
This episode tackles the phenomenon psychologists call "chronic ambient stress"—the never-ending background noise of negativity that keeps our stress response systems constantly activated. Dr. V explains what happens to our brains and bodies when we're continuously exposed to troubling headlines, why doomscrolling feels so exhausting, and how "headline stress disorder" impacts our daily lives.
In this episode:
Understanding the psychology behind our collective anxiety and overwhelm
Practical strategies to stay informed without burning out
How to use social media mindfully while protecting your peace
Managing anxiety about real threats beyond our control (climate change, political instability, economic uncertainty)
Recognizing and addressing compassion fatigue
Creating psychological safety for children in uncertain times
Navigating the suicide crisis and what to do when loved ones are in distress
Building long-term resilience for sustainable engagement
The surprising connection between mental and physical health

Sleep Apnea and Your Health

Dr. V explains sleep apnea, and how it impacts overall health, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues. These effects are primarily due to the lack of oxygen and the stress hormones released in response to these pauses. 

Why is Healthcare so Expensive?

Ever wonder why healthcare is so costly and if there is anything that you can do about it?  Get the inside scoop about healthcare costs, and direct answers to listener questions from Dr. V, a 30-year emergency room doc.
In this episode you'll learn more about the business of health and how you can get financial assistance when you need it.  Plus, enjoy a little laughter for your pain with Comedian Damon Williams.

"Unmasking Diabetes: From Diagnosis to Lifestyle Transition"

This week's episode dives deep into the world of diabetes, a silent public health challenge affecting millions of people. With insights into the various types of diabetes, we explore the critical importance of getting your hemoglobin A1c checked to prevent serious complications. Our host, Dr. V, shares valuable tips on how dietary changes and lifestyle choices can significantly impact your health and help you manage or even reverse pre-diabetic conditions. Interactive discussions with callers reveal everyday struggles and practical solutions, including understanding the glycemic index and exploring new medical advancements. Whether you're living with diabetes or seeking to understand your risk, this episode offers essential knowledge and tools for a healthier future.

The Moral Crisis of Healthcare in America

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dr. Valda Crowder examines Dr. King's unfinished work in healthcare equity. Drawing from his 1966 declaration that "injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane," this episode explores how inequality, access, and systemic bias continue to shape American healthcare. Through listener calls, Dr. V addresses maternal mortality disparities, medical mistrust, geographic barriers to care, and the connection between economic and health justice in Black communities. The conversation asks: What would Dr. King challenge us to do today? Join the discussion about healthcare as a human right and the path toward true health equity.

How to Decrease Your Healthcare Costs in the Upcoming Year

How to Decrease Your Healthcare Costs in the Upcoming Year
Join Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she tackles one of the most pressing issues facing Americans today: rising healthcare costs. In this episode, Dr. V answers listener questions about navigating emergency room visits, understanding hospital billing, avoiding surprise medical bills, and making smart decisions about when to seek urgent versus emergency care. She also discusses financial assistance programs for the uninsured and shares practical strategies to advocate for yourself in healthcare settings. Whether you're dealing with insurance challenges or trying to make sense of medical bills, this episode provides actionable advice to help you save money while getting the care you need.
Email your questions to info@askdrv.us
Produced by the nonprofit Channel of Health - informing, educating, and empowering communities about pressing health and healthcare issues.

Explore Careers in Medicine - Part 2

During a high time of job loss, and economic downturn, career opportunities in healthcare are still thriving. There is such a vast world in healthcare careers beyond being a doctor!
Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) is back with part two of guiding listeners through the diverse opportunities in healthcare—from medical billing and nursing to phlebotomy, mental health therapy, and pharmaceutical sales.
Discover training requirements, salary expectations, and career paths that offer meaningful work, job security, and the chance to make a real difference. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply curious about healthcare professions, this episode reveals the dozens of roles that make modern healthcare possible. 

Your Mouth Matters: The Hidden Links Between Teeth and Total Health

Your mouth reveals more about your health than you think. Join Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) and her dental expert guests as they explore the critical links between dental health and major health conditions like sleep apnea and more. Discover why bleeding gums aren't just a dental issue—they're a warning sign your whole body needs attention. Dr. V and guests answer listener questions about everything from oral health to warning signs you should never ignore. Whether you haven't seen a dentist in years or brush three times daily, this episode will change how you think about your dental care.