Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare

Hosted by Sandy Kibling

Business Education Health Fitness

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Episodes

130

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Are you tired of the high cost of healthcare? Are you overwhelmed trying to navigate a complicated healthcare system? Welcome to Get Savvy…Demystifying Healthcare a weekly pod cast where we take complicated healthcare topics and make them simple.Imagine…if you could stop feeling paralyzed with FEAR and FRUSTRATION, and instead be EMPOWERED to make Smart Healthcare decisions for you and your family?Get Savvy with your host Sandy Kibling, a healthcare professional changing how healthcare knowledge is shared. Want to be a guest on Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare? Send Sandy Kibling a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/getsavvydemystifyinghealthcare

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60 recent

June 16, 202634 min

Episode 131: From 367 Pounds to a New Life: Stanley Bronstein’s No-Shortcut Weight Loss Journey

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sandy Kibling sits down with Stanley Bronstein, an attorney, CPA, life coach, and multi-book author who transformed his life after decades of struggling with obesity. Stanley shares his deeply personal journey, including how the loss of his mother at age eight shaped his relationship with food, how he reached 367 pounds, and the moment he decided he did not want his story to end early. His turning point came on February 1, 2009, a day he calls his “rebirth day.” Stanley explains why lasting weight loss is not about another diet, quick fix, pill, or surgery, but about becoming permanently willing to make permanent lifestyle changes. He talks about the role of mindset, self-belief, discipline, healthy nutrition, walking, and persistence in creating lasting transformation. This conversation is an honest and motivating look at what it really takes to lose weight, reclaim your health, and stop waiting for the “perfect” day to begin.Listeners will walk away with a clear message: temporary changes create temporary results, but permanent change can create a healthier, stronger, and more empowered life.Resources:The Way Of ExcellencePlaybookAIPartners - PodcastPlaybook AI Partners - AI Mini Solution LockerSupport the show

June 12, 202630 min

Episode 130: Medicine at 50 Below: Breaking Barriers in Rural Healthcare

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode, Mary Ellen Doty, founder of Wilderness Medical Staffing, shares her remarkable journey from serving in remote Alaskan villages to building innovative staffing solutions for rural healthcare communities.Mary Ellen discusses the realities of healthcare deserts, provider shortages, and the challenges of delivering care in some of the most remote areas of the country. She also explores provider burnout, the importance of autonomy, and how meaningful community connection can transform both patient care and clinician satisfaction.From building trust in Native communities to understanding leadership in small versus large healthcare systems, this conversation offers a compelling look at what it takes to bring high-quality care to places that are often overlooked.Listeners will gain insight into rural medicine, healthcare innovation, and why solving access challenges requires creativity, trust, and a deep respect for the communities being served.Key TopicsHealthcare deserts and provider shortagesRemote medicine and community impactProvider autonomy and burnoutInnovative staffing solutions for rural areasSound Bites"Leadership in small vs. large healthcare systems""Building trust in Native communities""Insights from 'Medicine at 50 Below'"Chapters00:00Introduction to Healthcare Deserts02:58Mary Ellen's Journey in Rural Medicine06:06Challenges in the Lower 48 Healthcare System08:48Understanding the Bush and Village Healthcare11:53The Role of Tribal Health Care Consortia14:49The Disconnect in Large Healthcare Systems17:54The Importance of Autonomy in Healthcare20:57Transitioning Back to Alaska23:54Insights from 'Medicine at 50 Below'ResourcesMary Ellen Doty Website Medicine at 50 Below – The BookWant to be a guest on Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare? Send Sandy Kibling a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/getsavvydemystifyinghealthcareSupport the show

May 20, 202635 min

Episode 129: Heart Health: Are You Missing the Gut Connection?

Send us Fan MailYou may be doing all the “right” things for your heart—exercising, eating well, stretching, and showing up consistently for your health—but what if there is another important piece of the puzzle? In this episode of Get Savvy…Demystifying Healthcare, Sandy Kibling welcomes Dr. Bilal Ahmed, an interventional and structural cardiologist, to explore a deeper look at heart health beyond the traditional advice.Dr. Ahmed is also the co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Lylah Health, a personalized microbiome therapeutics company focused on heart health. He shares how the gut microbiome may play an important role in cardiovascular risk factors and how targeted prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics could support a more personalized approach to prevention and wellness.Key takeaways: Heart health is about more than exercise and diet alone. The gut microbiome may be an overlooked factor in cardiovascular wellness.Personalized healthcare is changing how we think about prevention.Consumers should stay curious, ask better questions, and understand emerging options that may support long-term heart health.Resources:LylahHealthWant to be a guest on Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare? Send Sandy Kibling a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/getsavvydemystifyinghealthcareSupport the show

May 12, 202632 min

Episode 128: Stop the Silent Threat: Preventing Heart Attacks, Strokes, and Dementia

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sandy Kibling sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Boone, a leader in preventative cardiology, to discuss why heart health is about much more than reacting after something goes wrong. Dr. Boone shares how early detection, advanced imaging, genetics, and proactive care can help identify plaque and arterial risk before it leads to heart attacks, strokes, or other serious health events.This conversation also explores the powerful connection between heart health and brain health, including how prevention may play a role in reducing the risk of dementia and supporting long-term longevity. Listeners will learn why lifestyle choices, medications, innovative testing, and personalized prevention strategies can work together to help people take smarter, earlier action for their health. Sound Bites"Your artery age can be 81 at age 52""Protecting your heart protects your brain""Early detection can wipe out heart disease"Chapters03:13 The Journey of a Preventative Cardiologist06:06 Understanding Heart Disease and Its Hidden Nature08:50 The Importance of Imaging and Early Detection11:54 Navigating Healthcare Costs and Proactive Measures15:01 The Connection Between Heart Health and Brain Health17:46 Exploring the Book: A World Without Heart Attacks21:54 Final Thoughts on Health and Longevity Resources:BooneHeartInstituteA World Without Heart Attacks – The BookWant to be a guest on Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare? Send Sandy Kibling a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/getsavvydemystifyinghealthcareSupport the show

April 30, 202627 min

Episode 127: Mammograms Made Mobile: Innovation, Access, and Saving Lives

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sandy Kibling sits down with Dr. Ryan Polselli, Navy veteran and healthcare innovator, to discuss how Mammolink is changing the way women access breast cancer screening. Through mobile mammography units, Mammolink is helping remove barriers to preventive care by bringing screenings closer to where people live, work, and gather.Dr. Polselli shares why healthcare does not have to feel complicated, how technology and AI are improving access and efficiency, and why patients should feel empowered to advocate for themselves. This conversation highlights how innovation, compassion, and convenience can come together to help save lives.Key TakeawaysHow mobile mammograms are expanding access to breast cancer screeningWhy preventive care should be easier, more convenient, and less intimidatingHow technology and AI can support better healthcare deliveryThe importance of patient advocacy and early detectionSound Bites"Healthcare doesn't need to be complicated""Early detection saves lives""Patients should be their own advocates"Chapters00:00 Redesigning Healthcare: A New Approach02:04 The Journey of Mammalink: Breaking Barriers06:00 Creating Accessible Screening: The Mobile Experience10:08 Quality of Care: Mobile vs. Hospital12:11 Addressing Cost Barriers in Preventative Care17:57 Increasing Compliance: Partnerships and Impact23:01 Future of Mobile Healthcare: Expansion and Innovation Resources:www.mammolink.comRyan.Polselli@3Dmobilemammography.comPlaybookAIPartnersSupport the show

April 17, 202625 min

Episode 126: Unheard No More: Navigating Care for Children with Special Needs

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sandy Kibling interviews Paula Yoast, an attorney and mental health clinician, about her journey as an advocate for children with special needs. They discuss the challenges parents face in navigating the healthcare system, the importance of community support, and the need for effective advocacy. Paula shares her personal experiences, insights from her new book 'Tumbleweeds', and offers practical advice for parents dealing with special needs children. The conversation emphasizes the importance of persistence, community, and self-advocacy in ensuring children receive the care they need.Takeaways:Pediatricians are not always aware of the full picture.Parents should seek second opinions if they feel unheard.Community support is crucial for special needs parents.Insurance companies can be a significant barrier to care.Advocacy is essential for getting necessary services for children.Parents should document their concerns and questions for healthcare providers.Building a network of other special needs parents can provide invaluable support.It's important to challenge the system when necessary for your child's health.Raising awareness about special needs can help reduce stigma.There is always hope and support available for parents.Sound Bites"Pediatricians are not God.""You always have a right to ask someone else.""You can always live to fight another day."Chapters02:57 Navigating the Healthcare System06:11 Finding Support and Resources09:00 The Importance of Community for Special Needs Parents11:51 Dealing with Insurance and Healthcare Challenges14:52 Empowerment Through Advocacy18:11 Raising Awareness and Building Community21:12 Conclusion and Hope for ParentsResources:Paula Yoast - WebsiteLaw Office of Paula YoastTumbleweeds – How To Be An Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System – The BookPlaybook AI Partners - Sandy Kibling's New PodcastWant to be a guest on Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare? Send Sandy Kibling a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/getsavvydemystifyinghealthcareSupport the showSupport the show

April 7, 202625 min

Episode 125: Breaking Myths About Aging and Fitness...Get Healthy At Any Age

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of 'Reclaim Your Body', Dr. Michael Guadagnino discusses the importance of maintaining health and fitness as we age. He addresses common misconceptions about aging and fitness, emphasizes the benefits of exercising at home, and shares success stories of individuals who have transformed their health. Dr. Guadagnino also highlights the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle and provides practical tips for incorporating movement into daily routines. He concludes with key takeaways from his book 'Fitness Over 50, 60, 70 and Beyond' and encourages listeners to never settle for less in their health journey.TakeawaysPeople often believe they can't exercise as they age.Exercising at home is a viable option for many.Sitting for long periods is detrimental to health.Success stories show that it's never too late to start.Small movements throughout the day can add up to significant health benefits.Setting and writing down goals can help achieve fitness objectives.Celebrating small achievements boosts motivation.Natural approaches to health are preferable to medications when possible.Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for longevity.Never settle for less in any aspect of life.Sound Bites"You can be healthy at any age.""You have to fight for your health.""Don't settle in anything in life."Chapters04:37Misconceptions About Aging and Fitness07:45Exercising at Home vs. Gym10:11The Impact of Sedentary Lifestyle11:48Success Stories in Fitness14:44Practical Tips for Incorporating Movement15:30Key Takeaways from 'Fitness Over 50'20:48Addressing Weight Loss Medications22:37Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksResources:Dr. Michael Guadagnino WebsiteFitness Over 50, 60, 70 and BeyondPlaybook AI PartnersSupport the show

April 2, 202626 min

Episode 124: Hope for Healthcare: Patients, Policy, and Progress

Send us Fan MailIn this enlightening conversation, Cameron Sabet, a healthcare advocate and venture capitalist, discusses the complexities of the healthcare system, the importance of healthcare literacy, and the role of technology and entrepreneurship in transforming healthcare delivery. He emphasizes the need for consumer advocacy and engagement to drive systemic change and highlights the potential of AI and direct primary care models to improve patient care. Cameron encourages individuals to leverage their voices and skills to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system.TakeawaysCameron emphasizes the need for hope in healthcare.Understanding healthcare literacy is essential for navigating the system.Pharmacy benefit managers play a significant role in healthcare costs.Direct primary care offers a viable alternative to traditional insurance models.AI has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy in healthcare.Consumers have more power than ever to influence healthcare policy.Engaging with local politicians can amplify consumer voices.Collective action can lead to meaningful change in healthcare.Healthcare should prioritize patient-centered approaches.Innovation and entrepreneurship are key to transforming healthcare delivery.Sound Bites"We need some hope in healthcare.""Don't feel discouraged by all the news you see.""Collectively, we can all make an impact."Resources:Cameron Sabet - WebsitePlaybookAIPartners - PodcastSupport the show

March 27, 202624 min

Episode 123: Invisible Illness, Unshakable Strength - The Long Road To Being Heard and Believed

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you spend 18 years searching for answers to symptoms no one else can see? In this powerful episode, Rachel Weaver shares her long and exhausting journey with chronic dizziness, beginning the day before graduate school and continuing through years of appointments, tests, frustration, and uncertainty. Her story shines a light on what it feels like to live with an invisible illness while trying to function, be believed, and keep moving forward.Rachel opens up about the emotional weight of being dismissed, misunderstood, or told you must be “fine” because you can still show up to work or school. She shares how brain fog, anxiety, and the pressure of rushed appointments made it difficult to advocate for herself—and how everything began to shift when she finally found providers who listened, collaborated, and respected her lived experience. This conversation is an honest look at the gaps in healthcare and the courage it takes to keep asking questions when answers do not come easily.If you or someone you love has ever felt unheard in the healthcare system, this episode will hit home. Rachel’s journey is a reminder that persistence matters, your symptoms are real, and the right provider relationship can make all the difference. It is a moving conversation about resilience, self-advocacy, and finding your voice in a system that too often overlooks the patient experience. She covers more in her memoir Dizzy.Key TakeawaysInvisible illness can be deeply disruptive, even when others cannot see the symptoms.Being high-functioning does not mean someone is not struggling.Self-advocacy in healthcare is hard, but it can change outcomes.The best providers listen, collaborate, and treat patients as partners.Chronic illness often brings emotional and financial strain, not just physical symptoms.Soundbites“Just because no one can see it doesn’t mean it isn’t real.”“Being able to function is not the same as being okay.”“Sometimes the hardest part of illness is proving you are sick enough to be heard.”“The right provider does not just treat symptoms—they listen to your story.”“Rachel’s journey is a powerful reminder to keep asking questions and keep advocating for your health.”Resources:Rachel's Website - Books and ResourcesSupport the show

March 18, 202633 min

Episode 122: Don’t Stay Silent: Patient Advocacy That Can Save Lives

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Sandy Kibling and Dr. Julie Siemers discuss the critical issues surrounding hospital safety, patient advocacy, and the importance of effective communication in healthcare. Dr. Siemers shares her extensive experience in nursing and education, emphasizing the need for patients and families to be proactive in their care. They explore the concept of 'failure to rescue' in healthcare, the significance of hospital safety ratings, and practical tips for caregivers to navigate the healthcare system effectively. The discussion highlights the importance of partnership between healthcare providers and patients, advocating for transparency and communication to prevent medical errors and improve patient outcomes.TakeawaysA hospital visit can be confusing and scary for patients.Medical harm is a leading cause of death in healthcare.Hospital safety ratings can guide patients in choosing facilities.Patients should feel empowered to ask questions about care.Patient portals are valuable tools for accessing medical information.Educating oneself about medical conditions can enhance patient advocacy.Sound Bites"Patients and families must advocate for their own care.""Communication breakdowns are a major source of patient harm.""Be present, be polite, and be persistent."Chapters02:58Understanding Failure to Rescue in Healthcare06:03The Importance of Patient Advocacy08:56Navigating Hospital Safety Ratings11:58Effective Communication in Healthcare15:11Escalating Concerns in Patient Care18:03Resources for Patient Safety20:59Final Thoughts on Patient EmpowermentResources:Dr. Julie Siemers WebsitePatient Safety ChecklistJulie Siemers TedX TalkHospitalSafetyGrade.orgInstagram – Dr. Julie SiemersSurviving Your Hospital StayWant to be a guest on Get Savvy...Demystifying Healthcare? Send Sandy Kibling a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/getsavvydemystifyinghealthcareSupport the show