• Is Your Gut Trying to Tell You Something?
    Dec 1 2025

    Have you ever felt your stomach drop before a big moment? Lost your appetite under stress? Or turned to comfort food when you're down?

    You're not alone—and you're not imagining it.

    In this episode of Beyond the Checkup, Stellis Health mental health practitioner Tom Hawkins joins host Pete Waggoner to unpack the powerful relationship between your brain, your emotions, and your digestion. Together, they break down why anxiety and appetite are so closely linked, how your nervous system plays a role, and what simple tools can help bring balance to your body and mind.

    Whether you're dealing with nausea, overeating, or just wondering why your stomach reacts to stress—this episode will leave you thinking differently about the phrase “gut feeling.”


    What You'll Learn in This Episode

    • How anxiety and digestion are connected

    • Why your appetite changes when you’re stressed

    • What it means to have a “gut feeling”

    • How trauma or chronic stress can cause long-term digestive issues

    • Easy holiday tips for emotional and digestive wellness

    • A practical breathing technique that signals your body to relax


    Episode Highlights (Timestamps)

    [00:02:15] Is “gut instinct” real? How our brain and body communicate
    [00:04:08] Fight, flight—or digestion? How stress literally shuts down your gut
    [00:07:22] Why anxiety can feel like a stomachache
    [00:09:20] Top-down vs. bottom-up emotions—and how your gut and brain affect each other
    [00:12:19] Why holidays throw off digestion and how to help your body adjust
    [00:14:20] The small plate trick: easy mindful eating tip for big meals
    [00:16:00] Appetite changes and mental health—what your eating habits are telling you
    [00:20:00] A simple breathing exercise to calm your nervous system


    Listen to all podcasts here: https://stellishealth.com/category/podcast/

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    25 min
  • How mental health counseling really works
    Oct 7 2025

    The Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore About Your Mental Health

    Have you ever told yourself “I’m just tired” or “I’ll be fine once things calm down” - but deep down you weren’t actually fine?


    This episode of Beyond the Checkup shares why those thoughts matter.


    Stellis Health mental health practitioner Tom Hawkins joins host Pete Waggoner to explain what counseling really looks like, how to know when it might be time to reach out, and what small tools can help you start feeling better now.


    Whether you’re curious about therapy or looking for simple ways to manage stress and overwhelm, this episode is packed with practical advice.


    Episode Highlights (Timestamps)


    [00:01:00] What a mental health counselor does and the different credentials you might see

    [00:03:11] The power of daily self-care, including movement, gratitude, and connection

    [00:05:00] Red and yellow flags: subtle signs it might be time to seek support

    [00:07:59] Common myths and misunderstandings about counseling

    [00:11:00] How Tom helps patients track progress and build coping skills

    [00:13:28] Practical tools: journaling, grounding techniques, gratitude


    Resources Mentioned

    • Tom Hawkins, MHPRAC, Mental Health - Monticello location

    • Quiet by Susan Cain

    • Calm app

    • Stellis Health Podcasts & Blogs

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    20 min
  • Menopause Isn’t a Moment—It’s a Journey
    Jul 23 2025

    Summary:
    In this episode of Beyond the Checkup, host Pete Waggoner is joined by three Stellis Health experts—Dr. Lindsey Latteman, Dr. Amanda Zehrer, and Dr. Danielle Schirm—for an open, honest discussion about menopause and perimenopause.

    The team breaks down what these phases really are, how symptoms vary, and what treatments can help women feel their best.


    What You’ll Learn:

    • The difference between perimenopause and menopause
    • Common symptoms and surprising myths
    • When to seek help—and why hormone therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all

    Episode Highlights (Timestamps):

    • 00:00 – Meet the Providers
    • 00:38 – What Menopause Really Means
    • 01:30 – Why It’s a Tunnel, Not a Doorway
    • 02:09 – How Long Symptoms Can Last
    • 03:41 – Top Symptoms: Hot Flashes, Brain Fog, and More
    • 06:37 – Hormone Therapy: What It Is and Isn’t
    • 08:42 – Support from Loved Ones
    • 10:00 – Bioidentical Hormones Explained
    • 12:00 – Why Hormone Testing Doesn’t Work
    • 14:20 – Common Misconceptions & Cultural Attitudes
    • 17:45 – The Importance of Pelvic Exams Post-Menopause
    • 19:00 – Most Common Symptom Combinations
    • 21:00 – Lifestyle Changes that Help
    • 22:45 – The Menopause Society & Red Flags to Avoid
    • 24:14 – Final Thoughts from Each Provider

    Resources Mentioned:

    • The Menopause Society
    • Stellis Health Appointment Scheduling


    Provider Bios:

      • Dr. Lindsey Latteman
      • Dr. Amanda Zehrer
      • Dr. Danielle Schirm, DO


    Memorable Quotes:

    “Menopause is a tunnel, not a doorway—you don’t just wake up one day and know you’re there.” – Dr. Lindsey Latteman


    “This isn’t something you just have to live with. There are real solutions.” – Dr. Danielle Schirm


    “It’s not about reversing age—it’s about feeling better today.” – Dr. Amanda Zehrer

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    27 min
  • Neighbors Caring for Neighbors: The Stellis Health Story
    Jun 3 2025

    Episode Summary

    In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Checkup, host Pete Waggoner sits down with Stellis Health CEO Brent Wilde and President Dr. Frank Anderson to discuss the heart of independent care, the power of community-rooted providers, and what’s ahead for Stellis Health. From the legacy of neighbor-driven care to future plans like imaging centers and ambulatory surgery, they open up about why leadership with values makes a difference.


    Key Takeaways

    • Independent clinics offer personalized, community-based care.
    • Stellis is committed to keeping costs low while providing top-tier services.
    • Teaching, teamwork, and continuous learning are pillars of Stellis culture.
    • Big plans are in the works for an imaging center and surgery center.
    • Leadership isn’t just about running a business—it’s about staying connected to patients.


    Episode Highlights (Timestamps)

    • [00:00:00] – Meet Brent Wilde and Dr. Frank Anderson
    • [00:01:30] – Their professional journeys into healthcare and leadership
    • [00:03:45] – The value of rural medicine and community connection
    • [00:07:00] – Stellis' independent model and how it benefits patients
    • [00:11:50] – Growth, history, and the founding mission of Stellis
    • [00:15:10] – Recruiting the right people: values-based hiring
    • [00:21:30] – How independent status impacts pricing and access
    • [00:26:45] – What makes patients feel at home at Stellis
    • [00:31:10] – Future goals: imaging center, surgery center, Monticello expansion
    • [00:36:00] – Differences between Stellis and Stellis Health Skin Care
    • [00:39:15] – Final thoughts on trust, transparency, and the team mindset
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    43 min
  • Fatty Liver & Metabolic Liver Disease
    Apr 22 2025
    Understanding Fatty Liver & Metabolic Liver DiseaseIn this informative episode, Dr. Kari Fabian and Maura Romanshek, PA-C, break down the silent rise of metabolic liver disease, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. They explain how it’s connected to obesity, diabetes, and high-fructose diets—and why more Americans (including kids!) are being diagnosed earlier.Listeners will also learn about the FibroScan machine available at Stellis Health, a non-invasive test that helps detect liver stiffness before it leads to irreversible damage.Key TakeawaysFatty liver is often silent, meaning you could have it and not know it.The FibroScan test at Stellis Health helps detect early risk and prevent disease progression.Fructose-heavy diets, especially high-fructose corn syrup, are key drivers of liver damage.Early lifestyle changes and targeted medications can significantly improve or reverse liver disease.You don’t need dramatic weight loss to improve liver health—just consistent, practical steps.Episode Highlights (Timestamps)[00:00:00] – Introduction with Pete Waggoner, Dr. Kari Fabian, and Maura Romanshek, PA-C[00:01:15] – Dr. Fabian shares her background and passion for diabetes care[00:02:30] – Maura discusses her transition from family medicine to diabetes and weight management[00:04:20] – Understanding what metabolic liver disease is and how it differs from alcoholic liver disease[00:06:10] – What happens to the liver when fat builds up over time[00:07:45] – Surprising discovery: fatty liver is showing up in children[00:09:00] – The impact of diet, especially high-fructose corn syrup, on liver health[00:12:20] – The silent nature of fatty liver—how it often goes undetected without symptoms[00:14:15] – The importance of screening and using the FIB-4 score[00:16:00] – Introducing the FibroScan: what it is and how it works[00:18:45] – Lifestyle changes that help reverse fatty liver disease[00:21:30] – Fructose in fruit vs. processed foods—what’s safe and what’s harmful[00:24:20] – The role of coffee and tea in liver health[00:26:00] – How Stellis providers meet patients where they are in their health journey[00:28:15] – Available medications and why early detection is key[00:30:00] – Encouragement for listeners to ask about screening at their next appointmentResources MentionedStellis Health Diabetes CareDr. Kari Fabian, MD – Internal Medicine & Diabetes Care Dr. Fabian is a board-certified internist and lipidologist with over 25 years of experience. She specializes in diabetes care and complex lipid disorders, practicing at Stellis Health’s Buffalo and Monticello clinics.Maura Romanshek, PA-C – Diabetes & Weight Management Maura is a board-certified physician associate focusing on diabetes and weight management. She practices at Stellis Health’s Monticello and Buffalo clinics.Stellis Health Liver Health & FibroScan Services Learn more about Stellis Health’s liver health services and the FibroScan technology used for non-invasive liver assessments.Book an appointment at Stellis HealthMore on Metabolic Liver Disease – CDCMemorable Quotes"It's estimated that 25 to 30% of U.S. adults have some degree of fatty liver disease." – Maura Romanshek, PA-C"Fructose in whole fruit is fine. It's the industrial high-fructose corn syrup that's harming your liver." – Dr. Kari Fabian"The liver is remarkable—it can heal itself. But only if we catch damage early." – Maura Romanshek, PA-C"We’re finding signs of fatty liver in children as young as kindergarten." – Dr. Kari Fabian"Screening for liver disease should be as routine as checking blood pressure or cholesterol." – Dr. Kari Fabian
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    21 min
  • Skincare & Medical Aesthetics at Stellis Health
    Mar 18 2025
    Guests: Dr. Natalie Roser, MD & Carlie Kobilka, Advanced AestheticianHost: Pete WaggonerEpisode SummaryIn this episode of Beyond the Checkup, host Pete Waggoner sits down with Stellis Health’s skincare experts, Dr. Natalie Roser and Carlie Kobilka, to explore medical and cosmetic dermatology.They discuss a wide range of treatments available at Stellis Health’s Medical Skincare Center, from skin health management to advanced cosmetic procedures like laser therapy, Botox, and chemical peels.Dr. Roser and Carlie share expert insights on the importance of a consistent skincare routine, debunk common skincare myths, and highlight the latest technology available for anti-aging, acne treatments, and laser resurfacing.From everyday skin care tips to in-depth discussions on aesthetic procedures, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge for anyone looking to improve their skin health.Stellis Health offers full-spectrum dermatology services, from medical treatments for skin conditions to cosmetic procedures that enhance skin appearance.The Sciton Laser System provides cutting-edge treatments for resurfacing, anti-aging, acne scars, and pigmentation correction.Investing in skin treatments is great, but daily skincare habits (especially sunscreen!) are essential for long-term results.More men are embracing cosmetic treatments, including Botox, chemical peels, and laser therapy, to maintain healthy skin.Tanning beds do not provide a safe "base tan"—they accelerate skin aging and increase cancer risk. Wearing sunscreen year-round is crucial.Key Takeaways & Episode Highlights (Timestamps)[00:00:00] – Welcome to Beyond the Checkup with Pete Waggoner[00:00:39] – Meet Dr. Natalie Roser, Stellis Health family medicine & skincare specialist[00:01:31] – Meet Carlie Kobilka, advanced aesthetician at Stellis Health[00:02:32] – What services does the Medical Skincare Center offer?[00:03:37] – Medical Dermatology: Treating skin conditions like eczema, acne, and skin cancer[00:04:06] – Cosmetic Dermatology: Botox, fillers, and laser treatments for rejuvenation[00:05:57] – The importance of regular exfoliation & facials for glowing skin[00:07:00] – Chemical Peels: How they work & why they aren’t as scary as they sound[00:08:42] – Dermaplaning: The secret to smooth, radiant skin[00:10:20] – Facials: Acne, brightening, and anti-aging facials for all skin types[00:12:07] – Botox & Fillers: What they do and how they prevent aging[00:14:08] – Laser Resurfacing: The Halo treatment for smoother, younger-looking skin[00:16:44] – Acne & Scar Treatments: How Stellis Health helps clear skin for all ages[00:20:47] – Laser Hair Removal: Who it’s for & what to expect[00:21:10] – Skincare Trends & Myths: Why sunscreen is the #1 anti-aging product[00:23:11] – Spring Break & Tanning Beds: The truth about "getting a base tan"[00:24:36] – Special Skincare Offers at Stellis Health[00:25:28] – How to book a free consultation for medical or cosmetic skincareResources MentionedStellis Health Medical Skincare Center: https://stellishealth.com/skincare/Schedule an Appointment: https://stellishealth.com/buffalo-clinic/ – Call 763-684-3700Meet Dr. Natalie Roeser: https://stellishealth.com/skincare/our-team/Meet Carlie Kobilka: https://stellishealth.com/skincare/our-team/Our Top Skincare Treatments: https://stellishealth.com/skincare/Memorable Quotes"The most important thing you can do for your skin is wear sunscreen—every single day, no matter the season." – Dr. Natalie Roser"Skincare isn’t just for women—more men are realizing how simple treatments like Botox, peels, and lasers can keep their skin healthy." – Carlie Kobilka"Tanning beds don’t give you a safe base tan—they damage your skin and speed up aging." – Dr. Natalie Roser"A skincare routine is like maintaining your car—if you don’t take care of it, you can’t expect great results." – Pete Waggoner
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    28 min
  • Inside the World of Midwifery
    Nov 29 2024

    Empowering Birth: Inside the World of Midwifery with Stellis Health’s Jessica Borgstrom and Kristin Hazeman

    Summary

    In this heartwarming episode of “Beyond the Checkup,” hosted by Pete Waggoner, Stellis Health midwives Jessica Borgstrom, CNM and Kristin Hazeman, DNP, APRN, CNM explore the holistic approach of midwifery and the dedicated care they provide for women through all stages of life.

    Jessica and Kristin discuss the philosophy behind midwifery, their unique birthing and postpartum care methods, and the vital role of family involvement in prenatal and birthing experiences.

    Their dedication shines through as they share touching stories of births, the importance of emotional support, and the resources available to support women’s health in every phase of life.

    Join us as we celebrate the compassionate work of these providers, bridging the gap between natural care and medical support.

    Takeaways:

    • Comprehensive Women’s Health: Midwives provide care from adolescence to menopause, addressing a broad range of health needs beyond just pregnancy.

    • Holistic Birthing Approach: Stellis Health’s midwives integrate natural birthing methods with modern medical safety, supporting a personalized, family-centered approach to childbirth.

    • Postpartum Support: Emphasis on postpartum care, including mental health checks and lactation support, ensures mothers have continuous support after childbirth.

    • Advocating for Women’s Choices: Educating patients on their options and empowering them to make informed choices is central to the midwifery philosophy.


    In This Episode:

    • [00:00:00] – Introduction of midwives Jessica Borgstrom and Kristin Hazeman

    • [00:00:25] – Jessica discusses her journey and passion for starting the Monticello midwifery practice

    • [00:00:56] – Kristin shares her background and love for serving the Monticello community

    • [00:01:30] – Defining midwifery care beyond home birth, including support for women of all ages

    • [00:03:40] – Integrative birthing practices that bridge medical and natural approaches

    • [00:05:36] – The benefits of mobility and varied birthing positions during delivery

    • [00:07:45] – Physiologic birth and reducing medical interventions during labor

    • [00:10:48] – Handling birth emergencies with calm expertise

    • [00:12:32] – Developing a strong prenatal partnership and the importance of birth planning

    • [00:14:22] – Empowering women to advocate for themselves and embrace options

    • [00:17:42] – Importance of family support, especially from partners and siblings

    • [00:20:04] – Detailed postpartum care at Stellis Health, including physical and emotional support

    • [00:27:30] – The midwives share memorable and impactful birth experiences


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    32 min
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with family medicine physician Dr. Beth Brinkman
    Sep 30 2024

    Summary:

    Welcome to another episode of "Beyond the Checkup," brought to you by Stellis Health, where neighbors care for neighbors. In this episode, host Pete Waggoner discusses Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with family medicine physician Dr. Beth Brinkman. As fall approaches and the days grow shorter, many people start to experience symptoms of SAD, often referred to as the “winter blues.” Dr. Brinkman shares insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatments for SAD, offering practical tips to combat its effects and maintain mental well-being through the winter months.

    Takeaways:

    • SAD is a subtype of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often occurring in the fall and winter when daylight hours decrease.

    • Symptoms of SAD can include fatigue, increased sleep, weight gain, and feelings of sadness or disinterest in daily activities.

    • Treatments like light therapy, antidepressants, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet can help manage SAD.

    • Seeking help from a healthcare professional is important if SAD symptoms start to significantly affect daily life.

    In this episode:

    • [00:00:00] Introduction to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

    • [00:01:32] Differences between SAD and general depression

    • [00:02:31] The role of daylight and circadian rhythm in SAD

    • [00:04:00] Key symptoms to watch for

    • [00:05:32] Light therapy as a treatment for SAD

    • [00:07:20] Medications and therapy options for managing SAD

    • [00:08:10] The importance of a healthy diet and exercise in combating SAD

    • [00:09:56] When to seek help for SAD symptoms

    • [00:11:09] Timing and onset of SAD symptoms during the fall and winter months

    • [00:12:12] How long it takes to see improvements with treatments

    • [00:14:00] Advice for individuals and their loved ones on dealing with SAD

    Resources:

    • Beyond the Checkup - Stellis Health (with Transcripts)

    • Dr. Beth Brinkman

    • E-Newsletter Signup

    • SIGN UP & Win Prizes > October 25-29, 2024, Wizard of Oz Challenge - by Stellis Health Skin Care

    Quotes:

    "Seasonal Affective Disorder is more than just the winter blues—it’s a real form of depression that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life." - Dr. Beth Brinkman


    "For those affected by SAD, getting outside in daylight, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet can make a world of difference." - Dr. Beth Brinkman


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    17 min