In this episode of Endocrine Matters, Dr. Arti Thangudu sits down with Dr. Adrian Chavez, PhD in Nutrition — a leading nutrition scientist, educator, and host of The Nutrition Science Podcast. With his background in exercise science, nutrition, and health promotion, Dr. Chavez has spent over a decade translating complex nutrition research into practical, evidence-based strategies for better health.
Together, Dr. Thangudu and Dr. Chavez dive deep into one of the most misunderstood topics in medicine and wellness: What is the right diet for diabetes?
Key Points:
This conversation is a refreshing reminder that nutrition isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress, context, and understanding what truly works for you.
🎧 Listen and Learn:
💡 Endocrine Matters is hosted by Dr. Arti Thangudu — endocrinologist, founder of Complete Medicine and HeyHealthy, and advocate for direct specialty care. Through bold, honest conversations, the show challenges the status quo and redefines what great endocrine care looks like. We’d love to see you in our clinic: get started here!
In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Arti Thangudu sits down with intuitive consultant Sydney Ashland to explore the emotional, relational, and professional challenges facing high-achieving women—particularly in medicine. They unpack the unseen costs of leadership, cultural expectations around gender roles, and the ways women often internalize unrealistic standards.
From navigating relationship dynamics to financial empowerment, Arti and Sydney share personal insights, mindset shifts, and practical strategies for living a more authentic, balanced life. Whether it’s planning shared calendars with a partner or advocating for financial autonomy, this episode offers a deep and compassionate look at what it takes to thrive in today’s world—without losing yourself in the process.
Key Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Arti Thangudu sits down with intuitive consultant Sydney Ashland to explore the emotional, relational, and professional challenges facing high-achieving women—particularly in medicine. They unpack the unseen costs of leadership, cultural expectations around gender roles, and the ways women often internalize unrealistic standards.
From navigating relationship dynamics to financial empowerment, Arti and Sydney share personal insights, mindset shifts, and practical strategies for living a more authentic, balanced life. Whether it’s planning shared calendars with a partner or advocating for financial autonomy, this episode offers a deep and compassionate look at what it takes to thrive in today’s world—without losing yourself in the process.
Key Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Telemedicine isn’t just changing the way patients receive care—it’s reshaping the way physicians practice medicine, especially for women in endocrinology. In this episode, Dr. Munira Mehta joins Dr. Arti Thangudu to share how virtual care has created new opportunities for endocrinologists to provide high-quality, patient-centered care while also gaining more autonomy and work-life balance.
With 75% of U.S. counties lacking a single endocrinologist, access to specialty care is a significant challenge. Telemedicine is bridging that gap, making expert endocrine care more accessible to patients—while also allowing physicians to practice in a way that aligns with their values, schedules, and personal lives.
Dr. Mehta reflects on her journey from traditional practice to telemedicine, navigating non-competes, and redefining her career on her own terms. This conversation explores how telemedicine fosters longer, more meaningful patient interactions, greater flexibility for physicians, and a work culture that prioritizes well-being—especially for women physicians who often face systemic barriers in medicine.
Whether you’re a physician, healthcare leader, or just curious about the evolution of medical practice, this episode is an inspiring look at how technology can support better care, stronger physician-patient relationships, and a more sustainable future for medicine.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Resources and Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
Telemedicine isn’t just changing the way patients receive care—it’s reshaping the way physicians practice medicine, especially for women in endocrinology. In this episode, Dr. Munira Mehta joins Dr. Arti Thangudu to share how virtual care has created new opportunities for endocrinologists to provide high-quality, patient-centered care while also gaining more autonomy and work-life balance.
With 75% of U.S. counties lacking a single endocrinologist, access to specialty care is a significant challenge. Telemedicine is bridging that gap, making expert endocrine care more accessible to patients—while also allowing physicians to practice in a way that aligns with their values, schedules, and personal lives.
Dr. Mehta reflects on her journey from traditional practice to telemedicine, navigating non-competes, and redefining her career on her own terms. This conversation explores how telemedicine fosters longer, more meaningful patient interactions, greater flexibility for physicians, and a work culture that prioritizes well-being—especially for women physicians who often face systemic barriers in medicine.
Whether you’re a physician, healthcare leader, or just curious about the evolution of medical practice, this episode is an inspiring look at how technology can support better care, stronger physician-patient relationships, and a more sustainable future for medicine.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Resources and Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
Dr. Francine Kaufman joins the podcast to share her wealth of experience in endocrinology, offering a deep dive into the evolving landscape of the field and the unique challenges women face in medicine. From the shifting demographics of endocrinology to the growing influence of technology in patient care, she reflects on the past, present, and future of the specialty.
This conversation unpacks critical issues such as gender disparities in medicine, the impact of feminization on pay and leadership opportunities, and the importance of advocating for oneself in negotiations. Dr. Kaufman also shares her perspective on maintaining clinical practice, fostering strong patient relationships, and navigating career advancement while balancing personal and professional demands. Whether you’re an aspiring endocrinologist or a seasoned physician, this discussion offers invaluable insights into the progress made—and the work still to be done—to create a more equitable and supportive environment for women in medicine.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
Dr. Francine Kaufman joins the podcast to share her wealth of experience in endocrinology, offering a deep dive into the evolving landscape of the field and the unique challenges women face in medicine. From the shifting demographics of endocrinology to the growing influence of technology in patient care, she reflects on the past, present, and future of the specialty.
This conversation unpacks critical issues such as gender disparities in medicine, the impact of feminization on pay and leadership opportunities, and the importance of advocating for oneself in negotiations. Dr. Kaufman also shares her perspective on maintaining clinical practice, fostering strong patient relationships, and navigating career advancement while balancing personal and professional demands. Whether you’re an aspiring endocrinologist or a seasoned physician, this discussion offers invaluable insights into the progress made—and the work still to be done—to create a more equitable and supportive environment for women in medicine.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
The journey of new motherhood is challenging enough, but for physician moms, the demands of medical training and clinical work can make it even harder—especially when it comes to breastfeeding. The cultural and systemic barriers in healthcare often leave women feeling like they have to choose between their careers and their families. But does it have to be this way?
In this episode, Dr. Arti Thangudu sits down with Dr. Alia Hussain, a direct care pediatrician and lactation advocate, to discuss the vital need for better maternity leave policies, workplace flexibility, and a culture that truly supports physician moms. As a mother herself, Dr. Hussain has experienced firsthand the struggles of balancing a demanding medical career with raising children. Through her work, she’s helping to change the conversation and offer solutions that keep women thriving in medicine.
This conversation is about more than just breastfeeding—it’s about rethinking how we support the people who care for us. If we want a healthier future, we have to invest in keeping talented, compassionate physicians in the workforce.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
The journey of new motherhood is challenging enough, but for physician moms, the demands of medical training and clinical work can make it even harder—especially when it comes to breastfeeding. The cultural and systemic barriers in healthcare often leave women feeling like they have to choose between their careers and their families. But does it have to be this way?
In this episode, Dr. Arti Thangudu sits down with Dr. Alia Hussain, a direct care pediatrician and lactation advocate, to discuss the vital need for better maternity leave policies, workplace flexibility, and a culture that truly supports physician moms. As a mother herself, Dr. Hussain has experienced firsthand the struggles of balancing a demanding medical career with raising children. Through her work, she’s helping to change the conversation and offer solutions that keep women thriving in medicine.
This conversation is about more than just breastfeeding—it’s about rethinking how we support the people who care for us. If we want a healthier future, we have to invest in keeping talented, compassionate physicians in the workforce.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Dr. Eric Bricker started his career as a physician, but over time, he found himself drawn into the world of healthcare finance—unpacking the complexities of insurance, drug pricing, and hospital consolidation to help people better understand the system. In this episode, he breaks down how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) influence medication costs, why hospital mergers drive prices up, and what physicians can do to be better stewards of their patients’ financial health. We also talk about the power of transparency in healthcare and how both doctors and patients can work together to make more informed, cost-conscious decisions.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Links & Resources:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
Dr. Eric Bricker started his career as a physician, but over time, he found himself drawn into the world of healthcare finance—unpacking the complexities of insurance, drug pricing, and hospital consolidation to help people better understand the system. In this episode, he breaks down how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) influence medication costs, why hospital mergers drive prices up, and what physicians can do to be better stewards of their patients’ financial health. We also talk about the power of transparency in healthcare and how both doctors and patients can work together to make more informed, cost-conscious decisions.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Links & Resources:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
In this episode, Arti sits down with Brian Klepper, a nationally recognized healthcare analyst, strategist, and entrepreneur, to discuss the deep-rooted challenges within the healthcare system. They examine how financial incentives shape care quality, why chronic disease management—particularly for conditions like diabetes—often falls short, and the overlooked role of primary care in improving outcomes.
Brian, who advises healthcare organizations and employers on high-performance solutions, shares his perspective on the dysfunction of traditional insurance models and how data-driven approaches can realign incentives to benefit both providers and patients. He and Arti explore the public’s misconceptions about healthcare costs, the hidden barriers preventing physicians from fully understanding their own performance, and why endocrinologists must actively demonstrate their value in patient care.
This insightful discussion sheds light on the systemic issues at play and offers a vision for a more effective, patient-centered healthcare system—one where collaboration, transparency, and smart data tracking drive real change.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
• The Healthcare System is Failing Patients: Chronic disease management, especially for conditions like diabetes, remains inadequate, with only 10% of patients under control.
• Financial Incentives Prioritize Profit Over Care: The current system rewards volume over value, limiting patient access to the best treatment options.
• Data is Key to Better Outcomes: Tracking patient health metrics can improve care quality, but physicians often lack the time or tools to do so effectively.
• Primary Care Must Go Beyond Gatekeeping: Physicians should act as patient advocates, ensuring comprehensive and proactive care rather than simply referring cases.
• Collaboration Among Providers Leads to Better Care: A team-based approach improves patient outcomes and efficiency across the system.
• Physician-Led Solutions Are Underutilized: Doctor-run companies could transform healthcare delivery, but barriers prevent their widespread adoption.
• Endocrinology is Undervalued and Underfunded: Despite its complexity, the specialty faces inadequate reimbursement and limited recognition.
• Aligning Incentives Can Drive Meaningful Change: When providers and patients share goals for better outcomes, the healthcare system functions more effectively.
• The System Must Prioritize Patient Well-Being: Until structural changes shift focus from financial gain to patient health, achieving sustainable, high-quality care will remain a challenge.
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
In this episode, Dr. Ruchi Gaba, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, renowned thyroid expert, and thyroid cancer survivor, shares her unique perspective on thyroid care. From her personal journey navigating a missed thyroid cancer diagnosis to her work as the Director of the Thyroid Therapy Center at Baylor, Dr. Gaba highlights the pressing need for empathetic, patient-centered approaches in endocrinology.
Tune in to hear Dr. Gaba’s insights into bridging the gap between endocrinologists and their patients, tackling thyroid care challenges, and fostering a collaborative and compassionate approach to endocrinology.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
This episode features Dr. Sandra Sobel, a board-certified endocrinologist, lifestyle medicine specialist, and obesity expert based in Pittsburgh. With a passion for metabolic health, Dr. Sobel shares her journey from practicing in traditional clinical settings to founding her direct care practice, Summon Health, where she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Dr. Sobel also highlights the need for cultural and systemic change in the medical field, encouraging physicians to explore innovative models to better serve their patients.
Learn more about Dr. Sandra Sobel and her work at Summon Health and discover how lifestyle interventions can lead to better outcomes for patients living with metabolic diseases.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
Episode Highlights:
• The limitations of traditional endocrinology practices, including time constraints and administrative pressures.
• The role of lifestyle medicine and nutrition in improving metabolic health, diabetes care, and overall patient outcomes.
• The lack of formal nutrition training in medical education and its impact on endocrinology practice.
• How direct care enables deeper patient relationships, personalized care, and the flexibility to address root causes rather than merely managing symptoms.
• The challenges and rewards of transitioning to an alternative practice model, focusing on aligning patient care with professional values.
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
In this thought-provoking episode of Endocrine Matters, we are joined by the insightful and compassionate Dr. Wendy Dean to explore the concept of moral injury in healthcare. Dr. Dean is a physician, leader, author, and podcaster whose work has illuminated the emotional and ethical challenges physicians face in today’s healthcare systems. Together, we discuss her groundbreaking book If I Betray These Words, the complexities of moral injury, and actionable ways to reclaim humanity in medicine.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
• 03:12 Defining moral injury and how it differs from burnout.
• 09:46 The systemic factors that perpetuate moral injury in healthcare.
• 18:15 Dr. Dean’s personal journey from psychiatry to moral injury advocacy.
• 29:03 The impact of hospital consolidation and vertical integration.
• 41:27 Patients’ misconceptions about billing and the challenges of transparency.
• 54:12 Why direct primary care is a win-win for physicians and patients.
• 01:10:45 How physicians can address moral injury and advocate for change.
• 01:22:18 The power of collective action and building coalitions in healthcare.
Episode Highlights:
• Moral Injury vs. Burnout: Burnout suggests exhaustion from the work itself, but moral injury stems from systemic pressures forcing physicians to compromise their ethical commitment to patient care.
• The Cost of Healthcare Systems: Hospital consolidation, vertical integration, and profit-driven motives have created barriers to ethical care, leaving physicians struggling to fulfill their oaths.
• Direct Care as a Solution: Dr. Dean advocates for direct patient care models, which offer transparency, stronger relationships, and better outcomes for both physicians and patients.
• Building Trust in Healthcare: The importance of restoring the physician-patient relationship and challenging the systemic issues that harm both.
Resources & Links:
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Instagram: @drartithangudu
LinkedIn: Arti Thangudu, MD
YouTube: @drartithangudu
In this episode of Endocrine Matters, we delve into the transformative impact of empathy and collaboration in diabetes care. Dr. Vidhya Illuri, an endocrinologist and type 1 diabetes expert, joins diabetes advocate Mila Clark (The Hangry Woman) to discuss Mila’s journey from misdiagnosis to proper treatment, the challenges of navigating healthcare, and how endocrinologists and patients can work together to achieve better outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of diabetes care—offering insight, inspiration, and actionable advice for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
• 01:31 Celebrating women in medicine and their unique contributions.
• 09:36 Dr. Illuri’s transition from traditional practice to direct care.
• 18:30 Mila’s experience navigating systemic barriers in healthcare.
• 31:13 Understanding LADA and its distinction from type 2 diabetes.
• 38:28 The importance of empathy and trust in patient care.
• 51:00 The critical role of female physicians in fostering compassionate care.
• 58:01 Addressing the shortage of endocrinologists and its impact on diabetes management.
• 01:18:27 Recognizing and addressing diabetes distress.
• 01:22:34 Empowering patients through advocacy and validation.
Episode Highlights:
• Mila’s Misdiagnosis: Misunderstood for four years, Mila shares how persistence and finding the right physician transformed her care.
• Endocrinologists’ Role: Dr. Illuri explains why nuanced, frequent, and patient-centered care is critical for diabetes management.
• Women in Medicine: How female physicians, like Dr. Illuri, bring empathy and understanding to improve patient outcomes.
• Advocacy Tips: The importance of self-advocacy and how patients can empower themselves to achieve better care.
Resources & Links:
This episode is sponsored by CeQur Simplicity.
Connect with Dr. Arti:
Join us for the all new season of the Endocrine Matters Podcast beginning February 5th.
Endocrine matters empowers women physicians to challenge conventional norms and enhance patient relationships. Through deep discussions, we aim to elevate the specialty and inspire future generations of women physicians, driving meaningful change in hormonal health.