
What the Health is Happening? with Dr. V
TopHealth Media·60 episodes·Weekly
Quick Facts
From the show
Dr. Valda Crowder brings 30 years of emergency medicine to the health questions you're too afraid to ask your doctor.
Episodes
Latest Episode
October 23, 2026 · 30m
Welcome back to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." This episode, hosted by Dr. Valda Crowder, dives deep into the realities of breast cancer — one of the most common and deadly cancers affecting American women today. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Valda Crowder is joined by Noelle, a former ballerina, engineer, and author who, despite having no typical risk factors for breast cancer, faced a shocking diagnosis. Together, they walk through Noelle’s journey from initial symptoms and self-advocacy through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Along the way, they discuss the importance of understanding pathology reports, the value of partnership and trust with your medical team, and why staying proactive with screenings like mammograms can truly be lifesaving. Whether you have a family history or none at all, this episode is filled with empowering insights, practical advice, and hope for everyone touched by breast cancer. Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing Noelle's cancer journey 06:12 Advocating for further screening 09:00 Understanding breast cancer diagnosis 12:06 Determining cancer stage and grade 15:41 Breast surgery medical necessity discussion 20:44 Discussing Herceptin for HER2-positive breast cancer 23:39 Discussing estrogen and medical support 27:22 Discussing second opinions with doctors 29:19 Podcast and health advice promo Dr. Valda Crowder - Podcast Website - Podcast Producer - “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
More Episodes
Oct 15, 2026 · 22m
Welcome back to What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V. In today’s episode, we dive deep into the world of narcissism - what it really means, how it’s often misunderstood, and why the clinical definition matters so much more than the internet’s version. We explore how narcissistic personality disorder is diagnosed, where it comes from, and the profound impact it can have on relationships, families, and workplaces. If you’ve ever wondered how to tell the difference between a simply self-centered person and someone with a real personality disorder, or how to protect yourself when narcissism touches your life, this episode brings clarity, expert insight, and practical advice. Dr. Valda Crowder is here to help separate fact from fiction and empower you to take control of your own well-being.Timestamps:00:00 Understanding narcissistic personality disorder04:48 Origin of narcissistic personality disorder08:42 Types of narcissism discussed10:38 Narcissistic parents and bosses discussion14:44 Dealing with a narcissistic boss17:57 Understanding effects of narcissistic relationships21:41 Understanding real narcissism signsDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Oct 9, 2026 · 24m
Welcome to another episode of What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V. In today’s show, the conversation focused on the vital role vaccines play in protecting our health at every stage of life, not just in childhood. A key theme that emerged was the ongoing development of new immunizations and the importance of staying up to date with current recommendations, especially in a time filled with confusion and conspiracy theories about vaccines. The discussion explored practical questions around which vaccines adults actually need, why risk factors increase as we age, and how to make sense of real statistics related to vaccine side effects. Several points were raised, including the resurgence of measles cases in the U.S., updates to flu vaccine formulations, the importance of vaccines that can prevent certain cancers, and guidance on staying protected when traveling abroad. Listeners will also learn about the differences in vaccine recommendations from leading medical organizations, what to do in case of vaccine side effects, and how vaccinations can help maintain independence and longevity as we age.Timestamps:00:00 Importance of adult vaccinations05:17 COVID and shingles vaccine advice08:43 Discussing RSV and flu vaccinations11:27 Measles outbreak and vaccination importance14:35 Discussing meningococcal vaccine and travel vaccines19:19 Discussing vaccine risks and safety20:44 Vaccine Injury Compensation Program overview23:57 Discussion on postpartum depressionDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Oct 1, 2026 · 26m
Welcome back to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." In this episode, host Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician, dives into part two of our series on narcissism. Building on last week’s foundation, Dr. V breaks down the practical side of dealing with narcissists, from spotting the red flags and understanding common manipulation tactics like love bombing and triangulation, to learning how to set boundaries, navigate tricky family dynamics, and survive narcissism in the workplace. You will hear real-world questions, including whether narcissists can change, when to consider no contact, and what it means when leaders display narcissistic traits on the public stage. Tune in and empower yourself with useful strategies for recognizing and protecting yourself from narcissistic behavior in all areas of your life.Timestamps:00:00 Discussing narcissistic personality disorder traits04:04 Setting boundaries with a narcissist09:50 Promoting the health podcast10:29 DARVO manipulation pattern explained14:14 Concerns about Trump's mental state19:16 Setting boundaries with narcissistic parents20:59 Dealing with narcissistic parents25:17 Podcast promotion and listener feedbackDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Sep 25, 2026 · 26m
Welcome to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." In today's episode, Dr. Valda Crowder dives into a topic that's everywhere these days: narcissism. The term gets thrown around in pop culture and everyday life, but what does it really mean from a clinical perspective? Dr. V breaks down the difference between narcissistic traits and the actual diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder, explores its characteristics, and discusses how these behaviors present in relationships, families, and even in the workplace. You’ll also hear the latest research on narcissism, learn why it’s critical for a licensed clinician, not social media, to make the diagnosis, and get practical advice for dealing with narcissists in your own life. Stay tuned for expert insights, listener questions, and tips you can use to spot real red flags—plus a sneak peek at what’s coming next week in part two!Timestamps:00:00 Understanding narcissism and its diagnosis04:56 Characteristics of narcissistic personality disorder09:36 Types of narcissism explored10:50 Gender differences in narcissism traits17:08 Study on narcissistic leaders and remote work18:05 Narcissism and workplace dynamics23:31 Understanding sociopaths and psychopaths25:36 Preview of Narcissism Part 2Dr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Sep 15, 2026 · 26m
Welcome back to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." In today’s episode, Dr. Valda Crowder dives into the world of asthma, an often misunderstood but potentially deadly chronic disease that affects millions of Americans. Despite its prevalence, asthma still sends hundreds of thousands to the ER every year and claims lives, with many patients struggling to manage it correctly.This episode covers what actually happens inside the lungs during an asthma attack, the difference between a manageable flare-up and a true emergency, and why asthma looks so different from one person to the next. Dr. V shares vital tips on medication, the role of air quality and environmental factors, and best practices for kids and adults alike. Whether you have asthma, know someone who does, or have ever wondered if that lingering cough might be something more, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Get ready to take a breath and learn what the health is really happening with asthma!Timestamps:00:00 Understanding asthma attack mechanics06:49 Breathing issues despite inhaler use10:28 Barriers to asthma care12:14 Impact of air quality on health14:47 Children's asthma and viral infections20:52 Importance of sharing health info22:14 Discussing steroids for asthma treatment25:11 Understanding and managing asthma risksDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Sep 3, 2026 · 27m
Welcome to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." In this episode, board-certified emergency medicine physician Dr. Valda Crowder dives into a crisis that's often hidden in plain sight: gambling addiction. With alarming stories in the news about insider trading, betting on confidential information, and the rise of sports betting and online gambling, Dr. V reframes what many see as a criminal justice issue as a serious public health concern. She explains the science behind gambling disorder, classified as a behavioral addiction, and breaks down its warning signs, impact on the brain, and devastating consequences, from financial ruin to increased suicide risk. Dr. V also answers listener questions about how gambling addiction can start, especially in children and young adults, and shares practical steps for recognizing a problem and getting help. Whether you're worried about a loved one or curious about how gambling manipulates our brains, this episode brings you the facts, resources, and compassionate support you need.Timestamps:00:00 Understanding Gambling Addiction05:48 Why gambling is addictive09:24 Youth gambling risks and brain development10:30 Insider trading in prediction markets14:25 Recognizing gambling addiction signs17:48 Understanding Behavioral Addictions20:45 Identifying gambling red flags in youth23:33 Connection between gambling and depression26:46 Getting help for gambling problemsDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Aug 28, 2026 · 28m
The conversation focused on the hidden epidemic of chronic stress and its profound effects on health, both physically and mentally. A key theme that emerged was the distinction between normal, short-lived stress and chronic stress that lingers for months or even years, often becoming an unnoticed "new normal" in people’s lives. The discussion explored the biological impacts of persistent elevated cortisol, including increased risk for anxiety, depression, metabolic disorders, heart disease, and even accelerated biological aging. Several points were raised, including practical strategies for managing chronic stress, the importance of community and faith-based support, the unique burden women face, and how systemic issues such as racism and workplace environment contribute to the problem. Listeners also submitted questions on recognizing and coping with stress, the role of healthcare systems, and the critical need for open conversations to break stigma around mental health. This episode is dedicated to empowering listeners with evidence-based knowledge and tools to recognize, address, and overcome chronic stress in their daily lives.Timestamps:00:00 Difference between normal and chronic stress06:12 Understanding chronic stress adaptation08:46 Managing stress and health strategies12:15 Discussing chronic stress in church settings15:26 Chronic stress and lifestyle factors20:29 Importance of School-Based Mental Health22:07 Integrating mental health in primary care26:13 Discussing burnout and mental healthDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Aug 20, 2026 · 25m
Welcome to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V," where your host, Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and passionate health advocate, dives deep into the vital issues impacting your well-being. In this episode, Dr. Valda Crowder explores a topic that touches every family: brain and cognitive health. From the everyday memory lapses we all experience to the serious early warning signs of cognitive decline and dementia, you’ll learn what’s normal, what’s not, and why recognizing the difference is so important.With millions of Americans already affected by conditions like Alzheimer's disease and costs to families and society rising every year, Dr. Valda Crowder brings you the facts on risk factors, warning signs, new treatment options, and practical tips to help protect your brain. Whether you’re worried about your own memory or supporting a loved one, this episode offers life-saving knowledge, real answers to your most pressing questions, and guidance for living your healthiest, sharpest life.Timestamps:00:00 Types of Memory and Cognition03:04 Types of memory decline09:07 Early signs of cognitive decline10:20 Recognizing and addressing warning signs14:36 Discussing health risk factors19:52 Understanding different types of dementia21:47 Community resources for dementia care24:19 Contacting and Following the Health ExpertDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”
Aug 10, 2026 · 26m
The conversation focused on the dangers of heat and how many people underestimate its impact, especially as temperatures rise in the summer. A key theme that emerged was that heat kills more people each year than any other weather event, often without dramatic warning signs. The discussion explored how heat affects the body on a cellular level, why certain groups like infants, the elderly, athletes, and outdoor workers are at greater risk, and how to recognize the critical difference between simple overheating and a true medical emergency. Several points were raised, including practical steps to take if someone is experiencing a heat emergency, the risks of leaving children or pets in cars, how hydration and alcohol consumption play a role, and what a smart heat safety plan looks like for families. This episode offers essential guidance for anyone wanting to stay safe and prepared during the hottest months of the year.Timestamps:00:00 Dangers of extreme heat06:06 Heat risks for vulnerable groups08:32 Helping someone who is lightheaded13:19 Smart pacing for exercise15:34 Discussing heat tolerance and acclimation18:48 Staying cool in hot weather23:09 Understanding fluid intake and health25:14 Recognizing heat safety signsDr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”