Vitals & Values: Concierge Medicine of West Michigan
Science Over Hype.
Values Over Virality.
Vitals & Values is where evidence-based health meets unapologetic truth. Hosted by Dr. Lara (@lbaat), a concierge MD reshaping modern medicine, and David Roden (@Fit_DRock), a transformation coach who lost over 200 pounds and lived to tell the tale, this podcast isn’t here to go viral—it’s here to tell the truth.
Every episode dives deep into:
- 🧬 Medicine & Metabolic Health
- 🥦 Nutrition & Sustainable Weight Loss
- 🏋️♂️ Fitness & Habit Formation
- ✝ Christian Faith & Spiritual Stewardship
- 💭 Mental Health & Lifestyle Resets
📅 Weekly Format:
- Vitals Check – Clinical clarity from Dr. Lara
- Values in Focus – Real-world forces behind health: mindset, faith, emotions, relationships, identity, and environment
- The Honest Table – Candid convos & unfiltered guests
- The Real Takeaway – A lifestyle or mindset challenge for the week
This isn’t wellness theater. It’s not guru culture. It’s a movement for people who want to think critically, live intentionally, and take their health personally.
🎧 New episodes every Friday
📲 Follow @lbaat & @Fit_DRock on Instagram/TikTok
💼 Brought to you by Concierge Medicine of West Michigan – @cmwestmichigan
The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your personal physician before making changes to your health routine.
Vitals & Values: Concierge Medicine of West Michigan
“Should You See a Fat Doctor?”: What a Doctor’s Body Really Tells You
Summary
In this conversation, David Roden and Lara Baatenburg explore the complex relationship between physicians' weight, health, and their role as health models. They discuss the societal expectations placed on doctors regarding their appearance and health, the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the demanding medical profession, and the importance of empathy in patient care. The conversation also touches on the adequacy of nutrition training in medical education and the expectations patients have of their doctors.
Takeaways
Doctors face societal pressure regarding their weight and health.
Empathy is crucial in the doctor-patient relationship.
Weight issues are complex and not solely based on willpower.
Patients often judge doctors based on their appearance.
Nutrition education in medical training is often lacking.
Doctors can struggle with their own health while caring for patients.
The role of a physician includes being a health model, but it's nuanced.
Patients should communicate their expectations clearly to their doctors.
Chronic diseases often require lifestyle changes alongside medical treatment.
Understanding the challenges doctors face can foster better patient relationships.
