In this episode of the Optimal Health Podcast, host Pete Waggoner is joined by Dr. Timothy Toonen of Minnesota Oncology to share his expertise and knowledge about cancer care. They discuss the role oncologists play in helping cancer patients find the right treatment options while alleviating the fear that comes along with a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Toonen also talks about how his team plans on providing the people of Hudson with even more comprehensive care through their new facility at the Hudson Medical Center which will be opening its doors to the public this January 12, 2023. Takeaways: Ther ..read more

In this episode, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Allie Nyquist sits with host Pete Waggoner to discuss foot health and care. She also shares how at the young age of 15, she knew she wanted to enter the medical field and become a podiatrist. Dr. Nyquist and Pete talk about different foot problems that people experience such as toenail fungus and how they can be addressed and avoided. They also explore the relation of one's foot health to their whole body and overall well-being. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to learn more about not just foot care, but also how the condition of our feet ..read more

In this short yet information-packed episode, host Pete Waggoner interviews Sara Harris about her profession as a registered dietician and a specialist in diabetes care. Sara shares her firsthand experience managing diabetes and provides helpful tips on maintaining optimal health while living with this chronic condition. She puts emphasis on how small lifestyle and diet changes can significantly impact one's health for the better. This episode is sure to leave listeners feeling inspired and motivated to make positive changes in their lives amidst the challenges posed by diabetes. Takeaways: S ..read more

In this episode, Pete Waggoner and Dr. Stephen Harrold of the Hudson Physicians delve deeper into routine patient visits and preventive care. They talk about the importance of screenings in diagnosing and preventing severe health concerns including cancers, heart attacks, and strokes. They also discuss obesity and how one's diet can be one of the most important preventive measures against developing chronic diseases. Towards the end of the episode, they chat about medical marijuana and its potential drawbacks such as physical addiction and withdrawal, especially for those who start using it at ..read more

In this quick episode, Pete Waggoner gets us up to speed on the latest updates on Hudson Physicians' self-paced health challenges. He talks about how these challenges are the perfect way to foster and experience a sense of community while also maintaining optimal health. He also gives some insight on the benefits of joining these challenges, including the incentives provided by the Hudson Physicians through the program. Takeaways: Keeping track of our health goals doesn't have to be boring. Joining challenges can help us become grittier and better understand other people's motivations. In th ..read more

In this episode, host Pete Waggoner is joined by Hudson Physicians' CEO Matt Brandt, Dr. Jonathan Susa, Dan Zismer, and Dr. Gary Schwartz of Associated Eye to discuss Hudson Medical Center's new ambulatory surgery center that is set to open in April of 2023. They get into what the center will offer patients and how it will benefit the community through providing greater access to surgical care. They also provide a  glimpse into the design process of the center and what unique features this new facility will have for the people of Hudson. This episode is both an insightful and exciting loo ..read more

In this Optimal Health episode, Dr. Jason Lee, a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, sits down with host Pete Waggoner to discuss all things sports medicine. Dr. Lee offers an in-depth explanation of what sports medicine is, how physicians like him work with the local athletic community, and the kinds of injuries they encounter through their work. He also gets candid about how working in the field allows him to stay connected to the world of sports he has always been passionate about. The episode provides an all-encompassing overview of sports medicine and how it impacts athletes, families, and th ..read more

In this episode, host Pete Waggoner interviews Dr. Lincoln Likness, the pioneer of Hudson Physicians' sports concussion program. They discuss how the sports medicine team of the Hudson Physicians works with the schools, parents, and coaches to prevent and manage sport-related injuries, especially concussions. Dr. Likness also recounts his personal experiences as a physician specializing in the said field and shares how his passion serves as a driving force in his work. The episode provides an insightful overview of the complex world of sports concussion management, and offers an enlightening p ..read more

When a prominent new building is being constructed, it is the end result that catches the attention of neighbors and patrons. They might notice progress along the way, but rarely give thought to what is happening step-by-step. For those passing by the new Hudson Medical Center location, there is now a very large crane on-site. This means a highly efficient and important segment of the project is happening. The crane belongs to Wells, one of the largest precasters in the United States, who have paired with Hudson Physicians leadership and other designers/craftsmen to create an attractive, extre ..read more

In this episode, Hudson Physicians CEO, Matt Brandt sits with our host, Pete Waggoner, to share the exciting news about Hudson's new medical center in New Richmond. Matt gets candid about the design and scope of services that will be offered, as well as where they plan to find providers to help staff it. Plus, they touch on Associated Eye's continued partnership with Hudson Physicians, and their expanding presence in the area powered by their goal to fill the void in primary health care services. Takeaways: CEO Matt Brandt's commitment to making primary health care services more accessible sh ..read more