Have you seen the new accessory of the summer? I feel like I see weighted vests everywhere, whether around my neighborhood, on running trails or even at the grocery store. But are they actually worth the hype?



On this show, we answer questions like this every week, typically in 10 minutes or less. No jargon. No long lectures. Just quick, credible answers you can actually use.



In today’s episode, I’ll share:

Do weighted vests actually improve health?

What risks should you be aware of with weighted vests?

Do they have any added benefits?

Can weighted vests improve bone health?



If you're curious about weighted vests and whether or not they're right for you, then you have to listen to this episode of Hey Doc, Quick Question. 📬 Got something you’ve been wondering about? Leave me a voicemail at: https://heydocquickquestion.com — your topic might be featured! 🔔 Make sure to subscribe here on YouTube so you don’t miss new episodes when they drop. — 🎙️ Listen on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music 📱 Follow the show: Instagram & TikTok → @heydocquickquestion 👨‍⚕️ Follow me (Dr. Jeremy Alland): Instagram, TikTok & YouTube Shorts → @jeremyallandmd — #HeyDocQuickQuestion #HealthPodcast #DoctorExplains #MedicalMyths #HealthTips #JeremyAlland

Do Weighted Vests Actually Improve Health?

Why do your knees crack when you squat? Is it dangerous—or just annoying? I get this question all the time, and as someone with noisy knees myself, I know how unsettling those pops can sound. In this very first episode of Hey Doc, Quick Question, I break down what’s really going on inside your joints, when to relax, and when it’s worth paying attention.

This show is for anyone who’s ever thought, “I should ask a doctor about that.” No jargon. No long lectures. Just quick, credible answers you can actually use—most episodes are under 10 minutes.

In today’s episode, I’ll share:

 * What’s really happening when your knees crack (spoiler: it’s not bones breaking)

 * How to tell harmless noise from an actual injury

 * Why pain, swelling, or stiffness matter more than the sound itself

 * Practical tips to keep your knees strong and healthy

If you’ve got noisy knees—or you’re just curious about your body—you’ll walk away with peace of mind and a few easy steps to help you move better. 📬 Got something you’ve been wondering about? Leave me a voicemail at: https://heydocquickquestion.com — your topic might be featured! 🔔 Make sure to subscribe here on YouTube so you don’t miss new episodes when they drop. — 🎙️ Listen on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music 📱 Follow the show: Instagram & TikTok → @heydocquickquestion 👨‍⚕️ Follow me (Dr. Jeremy Alland): Instagram, TikTok & YouTube Shorts → @jeremyallandmd — #HeyDocQuickQuestion #HealthPodcast #DoctorExplains #MedicalMyths #HealthTips #JeremyAlland

Why Do My Knees Crack When I Squat?

If you've ever started a sentence with "Hey doc, quick question…", this is your show.

I'm Dr. Jeremy Alland — board-certified sports medicine physician, team doc for the Chicago Bulls, and your go-to for quick, credible health answers.

Each episode tackles a real question from a real listener — from hydration and gut health to sleep, sunscreen, and more. It’s short, clear, and to the point — no fluff, no fearmongering, just facts (and maybe a few laughs).

Subscribe now and send me your question at HeyDocQuickQuestion.com [https://heydocquickquestion.com] — I just might answer it in a future episode.

Introducing Hey Doc, Quick Question – Health Answers That Actually Make Sense

After three incredible years, Your Doctor Friends is coming to an end — but this isn’t goodbye forever. It’s simply the start of something new.



In this final episode, we take a moment to reflect on the wild ride we’ve shared — from our humble beginnings in a basement with zero outlines, to growing into a show that connected with an amazing community. We’re talking about what this project has meant to us, how it’s changed us, and where we’re heading next.



Spoiler: Dr. Jeremy is launching a new solo show this fall! It’ll live right here in this same feed, so please stay subscribed.



💬 In This Episode:

 * The story behind Your Doctor Friends — and why we’re wrapping it up
 * What we’ve learned, loved, and laughed about
 * How this podcast has changed how we practice medicine
 * What’s next (including a new show Jeremy will be hosting)
 * Why Julie might not be totally gone 👀
 * And most importantly, a heartfelt thank you to you — our listeners

💌 From Us to You:

This podcast has been one of the most meaningful things we’ve ever done. Thank you for sharing your time with us, for asking big questions, and for letting us be part of your world. We’ve grown because of you — and we hope you felt that too.

🔗 Stay in Touch:

 * Don’t unsubscribe — you’ll see the new show here when it launches
 * Got questions you want answered on the next show? Send them our way: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Follow along on @your_doctor_friends, @jeremyallandmd and @juliebruenemd for updates

Three Years, Two Doctors, One Big Thank You: Your Doctor Friends Say Farewell

Can you exercise with AFib? Know someone with AFib—maybe a parent or loved one—who wants to stay active but isn’t sure how? In this episode, Dr. Sean Swearingen, sports cardiologist, breaks down exactly how you can stay active while managing atrial fibrillation, without putting your heart at risk. Whether you're new to AFib or just looking to get back into exercise, you’ll get expert advice on safe workouts, heart health monitoring, and when to reach out to your cardiologist.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

 * Exercising with AFib: Why staying active is crucial for your heart, and how to safely incorporate exercise into your routine if you have AFib.
 * How to Start Safely: Starting or returning to exercise after an AFib diagnosis? Dr. Swearingen shares the best tips for building up your fitness gradually and safely.
 * Heart Rate Monitoring: The best tools to track your heart health during workouts, including the Zio Patch and Apple Watch, to make sure your AFib stays under control.
 * When to Consult Your Cardiologist: How to know when it’s time to check in with your cardiologist, and how to get personalized advice on exercising with AFib.
 * The Role of Sports Cardiology: Why seeing a sports cardiologist can be a game-changer for safely managing AFib while staying fit.

Who Should Listen:

 * Anyone living with, or knows someone living with, AFib who wants to get back into exercise safely.
 * People interested in sports cardiology and how it can help you stay active with heart conditions.
 * Anyone who wants to learn to have a healthier heart

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

 * Rush University Sports Cardiology: Learn more about Dr. Swearingen's sports cardiology practice here [https://www.rush.edu/].
 * Apple Watch: A great tool for tracking heart rate and rhythm during exercise. Find out more here [https://www.apple.com/watch].
 * Zio Patch: Continuous heart monitoring for those with AFib. Learn more here [https://www.irhythmtech.com/us/en].
 * American Heart Association: Exercise tips and guidelines for those with heart conditions. Check out their recommendations here [https://www.heart.org/].

Why You Should Listen: If you’ve been diagnosed with AFib, you’re not alone. But that doesn’t mean you have to stop being active. Dr. Swearingen gives you the expert advice you need to stay safe, stay fit, and stay healthy with AFib. Don’t miss out—tune in now!

Connect with Us:

 * Please sign up for our SUBSTACK [https://substack.com/@yourdoctorfriends] so you can forward this information to all your friends inboxes!
 * For more episodes, merch, or to send us direct messages:
 * Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/]
 * Email: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Socials: Follow @your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. DM or send us a voice memo—we might feature it on the show!



atrial fibrillation, AFib, exercise with AFib, heart health, sports cardiology, heart monitoring devices, Zio Patch, Apple Watch, managing AFib with exercise, post-COVID heart health, exercise guidelines for heart disease, living with AFib, sports cardiology, arrhythmias, fitness for heart patients

Stay Fit with AFib: Safe Exercise Tips from a Sports Cardiologist    |   atrial fibrillation, heart health, heart monitoring devices, Zio Patch, Apple Watch, arrhythmias

How well do you really understand your metabolism? What does it mean to be truly "Metabolically Healthy"? Dr. Greg Dodell, a board certified endocrinologist and the genius behind @everythingendocrine on social media, joins me to unwrap this naturally dense topic.

We cover why some people see unexpected jumps in blood sugar after meals, how insulin regulation works, and what factors impact glucose production beyond just diet. We also get into preventive health strategies, from tracking metabolic markers to calcium scores and even colonoscopies (yes, we even speculate about what happens to blood sugar during one!).

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How glucose regulation works and why it’s crucial—even if you’re not diabetic

✅ The surprising factors that cause post-meal blood sugar spikes

✅ How CGMs provide real-time insights into your metabolism and overall health

✅ The role of calcium scores in assessing cardiovascular risk

✅ Why metabolic health is a long-term investment, and how to start optimizing it today

Dr. Dodell brings a mix of evidence-based insights and real-world applications, making complex topics both accessible and entertaining. If you’re curious about metabolic health, looking to fine-tune your approach to diet and lifestyle, or just love a good endocrinology deep dive, this episode is packed with practical takeaways.

🎧 Listen now to start making smarter choices for your metabolic future!

Connect with Us:

 * Please sign up for our SUBSTACK [https://substack.com/@yourdoctorfriends] so you can forward this information to all your friends inboxes!
 * For more episodes, merch, or to send us direct messages:
 * Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/]
 * Email: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Socials: Follow @your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. DM or send us a voice memo—we might feature it on the show!



If you found this episode insightful, share it with a friend or post about it on social media—it’s the best way to spread health knowledge. And don’t forget to follow @everythingendocrine for more expert takes on metabolism and endocrinology!

How Do I Know If I Am "Metabolically Healthy"? Understanding Metabolism and How it Fits Into Our Overall Health

What if a deadly cancer was lurking inside you, and you had no idea? Gallbladder and bile duct cancer, aka Cholangiocarcinomas, are some of the most aggressive, difficult-to-detect cancers out there. With no reliable screening tests and vague symptoms that often go unnoticed, early detection is nearly impossible. But knowing the warning signs could mean the difference between life and death.

In this episode of Your Doctor Friends, we sit down with Dr. Scott Pierce, an oncologist from Lexington, KY, who treated John Schlarman, a beloved UK Football Coach and unfortunately passed away from this nasty disease. Dr. Pierce will walk us through John's story to uncover the harsh reality of gallbladder and bile duct cancer, including:

✅ Why these cancers are so difficult to diagnose early

✅ The subtle symptoms that could be red flags

✅ The shocking truth about family history and risk factors

✅ Cutting-edge research that could change the game

✅ The inspiring story of Coach John Schlarman—his battle, his resilience, and his lasting impact

Connect with Us:

 * Please sign up for our SUBSTACK [https://substack.com/@yourdoctorfriends] so you can forward this information to all your friends inboxes!
 * For more episodes, merch, or to send us direct messages:
 * Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/]
 * Email: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Socials: Follow @your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. DM or send us a voice memo—we might feature it on the show!



Understanding the Silent Threat

Gallbladder and bile duct cancer often go undetected until it’s too late. Unlike more common cancers, these diseases don’t have clear early warning signs. Many patients experience vague symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or jaundice. By the time these symptoms prompt a doctor’s visit, the cancer may already be in an advanced stage. That’s why awareness is critical—understanding the symptoms and seeking medical advice early can make a difference.

Why is Early Detection So Difficult?

One of the biggest challenges with gallbladder and bile duct cancer is the lack of reliable screening tests. Unlike breast, colon, or prostate cancer, there isn’t a simple routine test to catch these cancers early. Many cases are only discovered accidentally—like when gallstones are removed, and cancer is unexpectedly found. For bile duct cancer, detection is even harder because symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has significantly progressed.

Hope for the Future

While the prognosis for gallbladder and bile duct cancer is often grim, there is hope on the horizon. Researchers are working on advanced blood tests that could one day help detect cancers earlier. These cutting-edge tests analyze genetic markers and proteins in the blood, potentially giving doctors a way to spot cancer before symptoms appear. Though still in development, this research could revolutionize early detection and improve survival rates.

John Schlarman’s Powerful Story

This episode also honors the incredible journey of Coach John Schlarman. A dedicated football coach, John faced his diagnosis with remarkable strength and determination. Despite undergoing grueling treatments, he continued coaching, inspiring his team and community with his resilience. One of his most unforgettable moments? Coaching his team to victory against Tennessee while battling serious complications from his illness. His story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the human spirit.

The Silent Killer: Why Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer Are So Dangerous  | Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month Episode and Dedication to Coach John Schlarman from University of Kentucky

If you've ever worried that running, skiing, or playing sports might lead to arthritis or a future joint replacement, you're not alone. But what if we told you that staying active is actually protecting your joints rather than wearing them down? In this episode, Dr. Brian Cole, one of the leading orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine experts, debunks the myths about exercise, joint health, and arthritis prevention.

Dr. Cole has spent decades working with professional athletes, including the Chicago Bulls, and has performed over 1,500 cartilage restoration procedures. He joins us to break down what really causes arthritis, why some people develop joint pain, and how you can stay active for life without fear. We also dive into the inspiring comeback story of Lonzo Ball, the first NBA player to return to play after undergoing a rare combination of osteochondral allograft and meniscus transplant surgery.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

 * Does exercise really cause arthritis, or does it actually prevent it?
 * The biggest risk factor for joint degeneration—and it's NOT what you think.
 * How to balance staying active with protecting your long-term joint health.
 * The difference between "good pain" and "bad pain"—when to push through and when to seek help.
 * The cutting-edge world of cartilage restoration and what it means for future athletes and everyday people.
 * A behind-the-scenes look at Lonzo Ball’s groundbreaking surgery and his road to recovery.

Why This Episode Matters:

Many people cut back on physical activity because they fear joint damage, but science tells us this is the wrong approach. Exercise is one of the best ways to maintain musculoskeletal health, prevent injuries, and extend your healthspan. Dr. Cole explains why movement is medicine and how even those with joint pain can modify activities instead of avoiding them altogether.

We also tackle the emotional and psychological aspects of injury and recovery—especially for athletes who define themselves by their physical abilities. Whether you're a weekend warrior, an aspiring athlete, or someone who just wants to stay mobile into your later years, this episode has invaluable insights.

Key Takeaways:

 * The #1 factor in maintaining joint health is avoiding serious injuries, not limiting exercise.
 * Cartilage restoration surgeries are helping athletes extend their careers, but they come with long recovery times and uncertain outcomes.
 * Pain does not always mean damage—learning to differentiate types of pain is essential for staying active.
 * Professional athletes undergo extreme treatments, but many of the same principles apply to everyday fitness enthusiasts.
 * Strength training, proper nutrition, good sleep, and a supportive community all play a role in preventing joint issues.

Connect with Us:

 * Please sign up for our SUBSTACK [https://substack.com/@yourdoctorfriends] so you can forward this information to all your friends inboxes!
 * For more episodes, merch, or to send us direct messages:
 * Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/]
 * Email: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Socials: Follow @your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. DM or send us a voice memo—we might feature it on the show!

Join the Conversation!

Have you ever worried about exercise leading to arthritis? What activities do you do to stay active while protecting your joints? Let us know in the comments or ta

Preventing Arthritis: What Science Says About Exercise & Injury PLUS Can We Regenerate Cartilage Once It Is Damaged? 

Did you know the invisible work that keeps our personal and professional lives running smoothly may also affect our health? We're diving into a topic that impacts every relationship, workplace, and home—emotional labor— and yet it often goes unnoticed, undervalued, and uncompensated.

We’re joined by Rose Hackman, journalist and author of Emotional Labor: The Invisible Work Shaping Our Lives and How to Claim Our Power. Together, we explore the deep-rooted societal expectations around emotional labor and how gender dynamics play a crucial role in who carries this burden. Spoiler alert: women are doing the bulk of it, and it's taking a toll.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ What emotional labor is and why it’s essential for a functioning society

✅ How gender roles shape expectations around caregiving, kindness, and emotional intelligence

✅ The economic impact of emotional labor and why it should be compensated

✅ The role of emotional labor in relationships, workplaces, and healthcare settings

✅ Strategies to redistribute emotional labor fairly and recognize its value

We also dive into the idea that men can (and should) engage more in emotional labor—not just for fairness, but for their own well-being. In a world where connection and belonging are crucial for mental health, developing emotional intelligence is a survival skill, not just a ‘nice-to-have.’

Why This Conversation Matters:

If you’ve ever felt exhausted from constantly managing other people’s emotions, anticipating needs, or smoothing over conflicts—this episode is for you. We uncover the gender stress gap, discuss why married women are often the most stressed demographic, and share practical ways to set boundaries around emotional labor without damaging relationships.

And hey, we even bring it back to health (because, you know, Your Doctor Friends). The stress from invisible labor can have profound effects on our well-being, impacting everything from mental health to physical health. Recognizing and addressing emotional labor is a powerful way to reclaim energy, reduce stress, and build healthier relationships.

Actionable Takeaways:

💡 Notice emotional labor in your own life and give it the visibility it deserves

💡 If you’re benefiting from someone else’s emotional labor, acknowledge it and reciprocate

💡 Have open conversations with partners, coworkers, and loved ones about sharing the load

💡 Advocate for recognizing and compensating emotional labor in professional settings

This episode is packed with insights that will challenge the way you think about work, relationships, and fairness in daily life.

Connect with Us:

 * Please sign up for our SUBSTACK [https://substack.com/@yourdoctorfriends] so you can forward this information to all your friends inboxes!
 * For more episodes, merch, or to send us direct messages:
 * Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/]
 * Email: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Socials: Follow @your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. DM or send us a voice memo—we might feature it on the show!



💬 Have thoughts on this episode? Drop us a review or DM us—we love hearing from our listeners!

#YourDoctorFriends #EmotionalLabor #MentalHealth #InvisibleWork #Relationships #WorkplaceCulture #FairPlay #Podcast #WomenAndWork #HealthAndWellness

The Hidden Work of Emotional Labor – Why It Matters More Than Ever  | The invisible work in our personal and professional lives and it's affect on our health

Heart disease is often thought of as a "man's disease," but the reality is that it affects women just as much—if not more. The problem? Women aren’t getting the information they need to take control of their heart health. Did you know that heart disease is the leading killer of women, yet so many of us remain unaware of the risks? We sit down with the brilliant Dr. Martha Gulati, a leading expert in preventative cardiology, to uncover the real facts about heart health. From debunking myths about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to explaining how women can take proactive steps to protect their hearts, this conversation is packed with game-changing insights. Whether you're in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, understanding your heart health now could save your life in the future. Don't miss this essential episode—your heart will thank you!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

 * The Truth About Heart Disease in Women – Why it's often overlooked and why it’s crucial to start screening early.
 * Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) & Heart Health – Does it actually help prevent heart disease? Dr. Gulati sets the record straight.
 * How to Assess Your Own Risk – Learn about risk scores like the ASCVD and the new PREVENT score to better understand your heart health.
 * The Role of Lifestyle in Prevention – Small changes can have a big impact! Discover how diet, exercise, and stress management play a role in keeping your heart strong.
 * Coronary Calcium Scoring & Advanced Testing – Who should consider getting additional tests for heart disease risk?
 * The Importance of Knowing Your Numbers – Why you should get tested for LP(a), ApoB, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.



Connect with Us:

 * Please sign up for our SUBSTACK [https://substack.com/@yourdoctorfriends] so you can forward this information to all your friends inboxes!
 * For more episodes, merch, or to send us direct messages:
 * Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/]
 * Email: yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Socials: Follow @your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. DM or send us a voice memo—we might feature it on the show!



Resources & Links:

 * ASCVD Risk Calculator – Find your heart disease risk score here
 * Your Doctor Friends Podcast Website – www.yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com [http://www.yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com]
 * Email Us Your Questions! – yourdoctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com
 * Follow Dr. Martha Gulati – [Twitter | Instagram | Website]

Support the Show!

If you found this episode helpful, please take a moment to rate Your Doctor Friends on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. A five-star review helps us reach more listeners and spread life-saving health information. Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend—because when it comes to heart health, knowledge is power!

Join the Conversation!

Have a question about heart health? Leave us a voicemail on our website, and we might feature your question in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for tuning in to another episode of Your Doctor Friends! Stay heart-smart, and we'll see you next time.

Am I at Risk for Heart Disease? What Every Woman Needs to Know About Heart Health  |  American Heart Month: Preventing Heart Disease, Heart Attacks, Heart Failure

The show that teaches you to sniff out the garbage and answers all the questions you wish you could call or text your doctor friend. Don't get caught in endless web search spirals or social group chats, listen to your doctor friends!

Jeremy Alland

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