Episodes

  • Inside the Default Mode Network | A Different Look at Mental Health with Holly Hawkins

    Inside the Default Mode Network | A Different Look at Mental Health with Holly Hawkins
    May 20 2026
    What if the voice in your head isn't telling you the truth?

    Dr. John Sanders sits down with Holly Hawkins to explore a part of the brain most people have never heard of: the Default Mode Network (DMN). Drawing on years of experience in family medicine, he breaks down how this network shapes our sense of identity and the stories we tell ourselves. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or a nagging sense of not being good enough, the roots often trace back to patterns formed long before we were aware of them.

    Holly opens up about the conditional beliefs around love she carried from childhood, her experience with ketamine therapy, and the ongoing work of rewiring thought patterns. Together, they make the case that healing the Default Mode Network isn't a one-time fix. It's a lifelong practice of awareness, courage, and compassion toward yourself.

    Chapters
    [Start] The Mental Game of Athletics: Dr. Sanders welcomes Holly Hawkins, and she reflects on how her self-worth became tied to performance and external validation.
    04:18 The Default Mode Network: The neuroscience behind the DMN and how the brain works to form identity and inner dialogue.
    15:30 The DMN and Mental Health: How mental health struggles are often symptoms of a deeper narrative problem, and that medication alone doesn't reach the root.
    21:09 Ketamine Therapy: How psychedelic-assisted therapy can interrupt the DMN and create an opening for new beliefs to take hold.
    31:10 Natural Tools for Rewiring the DMN: Accessible, non-pharmaceutical ways to loosen an unhealthy inner narrative and how to build them.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    51 mins
  • How to Improve Your Exercise Routine | The Science Behind Movement with Dr. Allen Parcell

    How to Improve Your Exercise Routine | The Science Behind Movement with Dr. Allen Parcell
    May 13 2026
    It’s no secret that exercise is good for your body and mental health. But did you know it’s also good for your brain?

    Dr. John Sanders sits down with Dr. Allen Parcell, a professor of exercise science, to explore the connections between movement, brain health, and overall well-being. Together, they unpack how exercise impacts not just physical health, but also cognitive function, emotional regulation, and long-term quality of life. Dr. Parcell brings clarity to the “why” behind movement, reframing it as a foundational pillar of lifelong health.

    He shares his journey into exercise physiology and dives into the science of how the body and brain respond to physical activity. This conversation addresses common barriers to exercise and offers practical strategies to build consistency and support long-term motivation. Everyone has what it takes to live an active life—no matter your age or starting point.

    Chapters
    [Start] Meet Dr. Allen Parcell: Dr. John Sanders introduces Dr. Allen Parcell, who shares his background and experience in exercise science.
    02:08 The Science Behind Muscle & Movement: Current research on muscle contractions, and even how low-intensity movement can have great benefits.
    11:45 Exercise and Brain Health: How movement supports brain function, including neuroplasticity, learning, memory, and emotional regulation.
    24:54 Aging, Cognition, and Longevity: How consistent physical activity can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and enhance quality of life as we age.
    35:49 Motivation and Building Consistency: Practical strategies for overcoming mental resistance to exercise, and finding intrinsic motivation that builds sustainable habits over time.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    51 mins
  • The Neuroscience of Art | Katie Garner and the Importance of Mental Health

    The Neuroscience of Art | Katie Garner and the Importance of Mental Health
    May 6 2026
    Dr. John Sanders is joined by Katie Garner to talk about creative expression and its effects on mental and emotional health. Katie shares how art became a meaningful outlet for her during seasons of intense motherhood, grief, and personal hardship. They discuss the science of neuroplasticity and how it gives biological credibility to Katie’s experiences with art and her emotional well-being. Dr. Sanders makes the compelling case that creativity is not just for artists, but actually a fundamental human need with measurable effects on the brain.

    The two talk about everything from fluid art as emotional processing to journaling techniques for people looking for an outlet. This combination of personal experience and neuroscience offers a grounded, relatable perspective on how emotional well-being and our lived experiences are tied together. Creative expression—even in simple or imperfect forms—helps us to become more whole.

    Chapters
    [Start] Katie's Story: Dr. Sanders introduces Katie Garner, and she shares her story of navigating difficult experiences and discovering art as a form of support.
    05:20 Art and Neuroplasticity: The science of brain health and how creative activity acts like a vacation for the brain.
    13:10 Art as Therapy: How art is being used in various workshops to help people process and heal from addiction, grief, or other hard challenges.
    39:12 Practical Tools for Getting Started: Katie recommends a specific book as the best entry point for anyone wanting to reconnect with their creativity.
    43:16 Art in the Burn ICU: Katie shares a personal story about her daughter in the ICU and how art helped her through that difficult time.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/
    • http://katiegarnerart.com/
    • https://www.instagram.com/katiegarnerart/
    • https://www.facebook.com/KtAGarner/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    53 mins
  • The Truth Behind Skin Health | Tips and Risks Regarding Melanoma with Dr. Tom Barlow

    The Truth Behind Skin Health | Tips and Risks Regarding Melanoma with Dr. Tom Barlow
    Apr 29 2026
    We all want our skin to look good. But healthy skin is about more than appearance—it matters more for your overall health than you may think.

    Dr. John Sanders sits down with Dr. Tom Barlow for a conversation about skin health, melanoma risk, and the growing influence of modern skincare trends. They walk through what people should actually pay attention to when it comes to protecting their skin—focusing on what matters most for long-term health.

    They explore both the science and the real-world behaviors that are contributing to rising skin cancer rates, especially in places like Utah. From early detection strategies to the potential risks of certain emerging products, this episode offers clear, practical guidance while reinforcing a core message: taking care of your skin isn’t just cosmetic—it’s essential.

    Chapters
    [Start] Skin Health & Screening: Dr. John Sanders introduces Dr. Tom Barlow, and they discuss the importance of regular skin checks and early detection.
    04:25 Understanding Melanoma: A breakdown of what melanoma is and how UV exposure and genetics contribute to risk.
    11:41 Sunscreen and Skin Cancer: The truth behind sunscreen along with how much sunlight is considered safe.
    25:34 Involving Oncology: Discussing the different types and stages of melanoma and oncology involvement.
    33:07 New Tests and Procedures: A look at advancing technologies and how they are changing skin cancer detection and treatment.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    46 mins
  • Creating Healthy Habits | A Deep Dive into Modern and Natural Remedies for Health

    Creating Healthy Habits | A Deep Dive into Modern and Natural Remedies for Health
    Apr 22 2026
    In today’s world, it feels like every ache and pain needs a quick fix. But what if there were simple, sustainable ways to support your health day to day?

    Dr. John Sanders brings on his good friend Brad Dangerfield for a conversation on how to support overall health through practical, everyday habits. While modern medicine is necessary and helpful for a number of conditions, there is growing interest in how lifestyle and natural approaches can also play a role in long-term health. John and Brad talk about all things related to health, weight loss, better nutrition, better sleep, and other health topics to show you how simple changes in your life could unlock years of life.

    Brad shares his insights on the value of both modern medicine and natural approaches, along with personal experiences that have shaped his views. Rather than positioning one against the other, this episode emphasizes a more balanced approach—showing how the two can work together to support better health outcomes.

    Chapters
    [Start] Introducing Brad Dangerfield: Dr. John Sanders introduces Brad Dangerfield, and they dive into their thoughts on medicine.
    08:18 Overcoming Mental Blocks: Tips on how to strengthen the mind, memory, and overall enhancing quality of life.
    18:59 The Powers of Natural Medicines: A look at the benefits and risks regarding both natural and modern medicine practices.
    27:46 General Wellness: Common things to do every day to enhance your general wellness and keep your body healthy.
    46:50 Back to the Fundamentals: Going back to the basics of health and bodily functions to increase the quality of living.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • The Healing Power of Being Heard | Inside Chaplaincy with Ronda Weaver

    The Healing Power of Being Heard | Inside Chaplaincy with Ronda Weaver
    Apr 15 2026
    Staying in the hospital can be an unnerving experience for many. The work of chaplains exists exactly for that moment—to sit with patients in the uncertainty and make sure they don't have to face it alone.

    Dr. John Sanders sits down with chaplain and counselor Ronda Weaver for a thoughtful conversation about healing, connection, and the power of simply being heard. Drawing from decades of experience, Ronda shares her unique path into chaplaincy and the profound role it plays in both clinical and everyday settings.

    Together, they explore how emotional validation, presence, and storytelling can shape a person’s healing journey. Ronda now supports patients in processing and making meaning from their experiences through things like psychedelic integration. This episode highlights how listening—without agenda or judgment—can be one of the most powerful tools in medicine.

    Chapters
    [Start] Introducing Ronda: Dr. John Sanders introduces Ronda Weaver, a chaplain and friend, to share her story.
    01:59 Becoming a Chaplain: Ronda recounts her journey to becoming a chaplain and what was required to enter that field.
    10:56 The Power of Chaplaincy: A look at the many ways chaplains can be utilized in the medical field, as well as in life.
    25:47 Psychedelic Integration: How psychedelic-assisted therapy may support emotional healing and brain flexibility.
    32:33 Healing and Human Connection: How chaplaincy and counseling work together with modern treatments to support long-term healing.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    38 mins
  • The Psychology of AI with Dr. Brian Nyberg | What Technology Teaches Us About Ourselves

    The Psychology of AI with Dr. Brian Nyberg | What Technology Teaches Us About Ourselves
    Apr 8 2026
    Technology is changing the game in every aspect of life, including medicine. But how often do we stop and look at how much technology reflects our own human behaviors?

    Dr. John Sanders welcomes psychiatrist Dr. Brian Nyberg, for a thoughtful conversation about mental health, technology, and human connection. They discuss how rapidly advancing tools like AI are not just changing medicine, but also revealing deeper truths about how we think, learn, and relate to others. Dr. Nyberg offers his insights into how AI systems mirror human behavior, including our tendencies toward compliance, conflict, and the need for trust and safety in meaningful interactions.

    They also explore the psychological impact of technology and social media on the nervous. Dr. Sanders and Dr. Nyberg discuss how chronic stress and lack of recovery can gradually disconnect individuals from their emotional core. They highlight how things like stillness, nature exposure, and intentional reflection can help restore balance. This episode offers a grounded reminder that healing and growth often begin by slowing down and engaging more authentically with others.

    Chapters
    [Start] Dr. Brian Nyberg: Dr. John Sanders introduces Dr. Brian Nyberg, and they begin the conversation.
    02:50 AI as a Mirror: How AI systems reflect human behavior, and how our interactions with them can shape what they become.
    09:32 Connection Before Correction: A look at attachment theory and why emotional safety is required before change can occur.
    20:32 The Cost of the Internet: How social media and algorithms can overstimulate the brain, fueling emotional dysregulation.
    37:37 The Human Experience: The role of awe and wonder in mental health, and how these moments can help people reconnect.

    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    54 mins
  • When a “Rare” Disease Isn’t So Rare | Understanding IgA Vasculitis with Garrett Whiting

    When a “Rare” Disease Isn’t So Rare | Understanding IgA Vasculitis with Garrett Whiting
    Apr 1 2026
    What would you do if your child developed a sudden rash, joint pain, and abdominal discomfort—weeks after a seemingly harmless illness? Dr. John Sanders sits down with third-year medical student Garrett Whiting to unpack a condition many people—and even many clinicians—rarely encounter: IgA vasculitis (formerly known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura). What makes this conversation especially compelling is the real-world context: after years of not seeing a single case, Dr. Sanders encountered two within a matter of weeks, prompting a deeper dive into why rare diseases sometimes appear in clusters—and how to recognize them when they do.
    Together, they break down this complex condition into clear, approachable terms, walking through how it develops, what symptoms to watch for, and why it can look alarming but is often self-limiting. From distinctive skin findings to joint pain and gastrointestinal symptoms, Dr. Sanders and Garrett connect the dots between textbook knowledge and real clinical presentation. This episode offers both reassurance and insight, helping listeners better understand how the immune system can behave in unexpected ways—and why careful monitoring is key.

    Chapters
    [Start] Meet Garrett Whiting & Why Rare Diseases Cluster: Introduction to Garrett, his background, and the surprising reality that rare conditions often appear in clusters.
    06:12 A Real Case of IgA Vasculitis: A step-by-step clinical case showing how this condition typically presents in children.
    08:18 What Is IgA Vasculitis? (And Why the Name Changed): Breaking down the disease, immunoglobulins, and how immune complexes lead to vascular inflammation.
    19:29 Recognizing the Symptoms (The Classic Presentation): The hallmark rash, joint pain, abdominal symptoms, and what makes this condition distinct.
    23:27 Kidney Involvement & Why Monitoring Matters: The most serious complication, risk factors to watch for, and how long-term follow-up helps protect patients.
    32:07 Treatment, Steroids & What Actually Helps: When intervention is needed, how steroids may be used, and practical management strategies for symptom relief.


    Links & Resources
    • https://voyageclinics.com/


    Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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    40 mins