Health Matters

Latest Episodes:

How Can You Protect Your Joints? May 06, 2026

Show notes

Joints play a critical role in how we move, stay active, and maintain independence—but joint pain and arthritis can make everyday activities challenging.

In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Nana Sarpong, an orthopedic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about how joints function and what happens when cartilage wears down. Dr. Sarpong explains the difference between mechanical osteoarthritis and inflammatory forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, including how each impacts joint movement, pain, and stiffness.

The conversation covers conservative treatment strategies such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, and injections—along with when surgery becomes the right option. Dr. Sarpong also explains how modern joint replacement surgery works, how long implants now last, and what recovery looks like.

Dr. Sarpong debunks common myths, including whether cracking your knuckles is harmful, if weather really affects joint pain, and the idea that people with arthritis should avoid movement. His key message: motion really is lotion—and staying active is essential for protecting your joints and preserving long-term mobility.

Chapters

00:00 – What Are Joints and How Do They Work?
An overview of joint anatomy, function, and why joints are essential to movement

04:30 – Arthritis and Joint Conditions
The difference between osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis, causes of joint pain and stiffness

08:45 – Treating Joint Pain and Arthritis
Conservative care, physical therapy, injections, and when surgery becomes the right option

12:00 – Protecting Your Joints and Busting Myths
Exercise, weight management, common misconceptions, and the importance of staying active

Key Topics Covered

How joints function in the body
Osteoarthritis vs. rheumatoid and inflammatory arthritis
Causes of joint pain, stiffness, and cartilage loss
Physical therapy and non-surgical treatments
Joint replacement surgery and recovery
Exercise recommendations for joint health
Weight loss and joint load reduction
Myths about cracking joints and weather-related pain

Takeaway Message

Joint pain doesn’t mean you should stop moving. Staying active, strengthening the muscles around your joints, and managing weight can help protect joint function and slow arthritis progression. When conservative treatments stop working, modern joint replacement surgery offers safe, durable solutions that can restore mobility and independence for decades.

Doctor Bio

Nana Sarpong, MD, MBA, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee reconstruction. He is skilled in minimally invasive techniques, including partial knee reconstruction, primary hip replacement (both direct anterior and mini-posterior hip approaches), knee replacement, hip resurfacing, and complex primary and revision hip and knee replacement after failed surgeries. His practice leverages advanced technologies, including computer-assisted navigation and robotics, and offers the latest evidence-based surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. Based on a rigorous process to identify healthcare providers with a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, Super Doctors named Dr. Sarpong one of New York's Rising Stars.

Dr. Sarpong was raised in New York City and attended Brandeis University, in Massachusetts, on the Posse Foundation Leadership and Merit scholarship, graduating magna cum laude. He received his MD/MBA degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and received the Norman S. Stearns MD/MBA Excellence in Leadership Award. Dr. Sarpong completed his orthopedic surgery residency at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where he was elected as executive chief resident in his final year. As a chief resident, he was the recipient of the Nas Eftekhar award for excellence in adult reconstruction and the chief resident teacher of the year award. He completed the prestigious adult reconstruction and joint replacement surgery fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he received specialized training in navigation and computer-assisted joint replacement and complex and revision reconstruction.

Dr. Sarpong is actively engaged in research, with more than 80 peer-reviewed papers, textbook chapters, editorials, and national and international scientific presentations to his credit. His ongoing research interests include the impact of enabling technologies on patient outcomes after hip and knee reconstruction. Dr. Sarpong has served as a peer reviewer for many academic journals, including Foot & Ankle Specialist, the Journal of Arthroplasty, Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, HSS Journal, and the Knee Journal. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society, the New York State Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the American Orthopaedic Association, where he was elected as an emerging leader. Dr. Sarpong is committed to developing the next generation of leaders in medicine as a mentor to medical students, residents, and fellows.

What is Inflammation, and Why Does it Matter for Your Health? Apr 22, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes

Inflammation is one of the body’s most important defense mechanisms—but when it doesn’t shut off, it can quietly contribute to serious health problems.

In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Charis Meng, a rheumatologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how inflammation works and why chronic inflammation can put the body at risk. Dr. Meng explains the difference between short‑term, helpful inflammation and long‑term inflammation that lingers for months or years, affecting everything from joints to the heart, brain, and immune system.

The conversation explores autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, what causes inflammation, and how lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, stress, and physical activity can impact inflammation. Dr. Meng also discusses treatment options ranging from targeted immune therapies to lifestyle changes, acupuncture, and emerging research on GLP‑1 medications.

This episode offers clear, science‑based guidance to help listeners understand inflammation—and what they can do to help keep it in check.

Chapters

00:00 – What Is Inflammation, and When Is It Helpful?
How inflammation works as the body’s natural defense system

03:45 – Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation
Why inflammation sometimes doesn’t shut off—and how it can cause harm

07:30 – Inflammation and Disease Risk
Autoimmune conditions, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer

09:45 – How to Reduce Chronic Inflammation
Medical treatments, diet, exercise, sleep, and emerging research

Key Topics Covered

Inflammation and the immune system
Acute vs. chronic inflammation
Autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis
Heart disease, diabetes, and cancer risk
Anti‑inflammatory lifestyle habits
Mediterranean diet and inflammation
Exercise, sleep, and immune balance
Acupuncture and integrative care
GLP‑1 medications and inflammation research

Takeaway Message

Inflammation is the body’s natural healing response, but when it becomes chronic and doesn’t turn off, it can contribute to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. While some chronic inflammation is driven by autoimmune disease or factors beyond our control, healthy habits like diet, exercise, and sleep can still help support the body and reduce long-term health risks.

Doctor Bio

Dr. Charis Meng is an assistant attending rheumatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, who is also certified in acupuncture. Her practice is in general rheumatology, and her special interests are in treating older patients with chronic pain, low back pain and inflammatory arthritis.

Why Allergies Happen and How to Find Relief Apr 08, 2026

Show notes

Why do allergies happen—and why do they seem to be getting worse every year? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. David Gudis, an otolaryngologist and chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, to break down the basics of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis.

Dr. Gudis explains what’s really behind common allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and brain fog, and why hay fever is actually an overreaction of the immune system—not the pollen itself. He discusses why allergy seasons are lasting longer, how environmental factors and modern living may play a role, and the surprising ways allergies can affect sleep, concentration, and mental health.

This episode offers practical, science‑based guidance—from simple prevention strategies to over‑the‑counter treatments and allergy shots—to help you breathe easier this season and beyond.

Chapters:

00:00 – What Is Hay Fever?
An introduction to allergic rhinitis and why allergy symptoms happen

04:00 – Why Are Allergy Seasons Getting Worse?
Climate, environment, and changes in immune response

09:40 – How Do Allergies Affect Sleep, Focus, and Mental Health?
The surprising impact on wellbeing, mood, and daily life

10:45 – How Do I Find Relief? Treatments That Work
Avoidance strategies, medications, allergy shots, and nasal rinses

Key Topics Covered:

Hay fever / allergic rhinitis
Immune system overreaction
Seasonal and environmental allergies
Mental health and sleep disruption
Pollen season and climate effects
Allergy prevention and treatment
Nasal sprays, antihistamines, and immunotherapy

Takeaway Message:

Hay fever isn’t “just allergies” — it’s a real, systemic condition caused by an overactive immune response that can affect sleep, mood, concentration, and quality of life. The good news? Effective treatments exist, and with the right approach, allergy symptoms can be controlled

Doctor Bio:

Dr. David Gudis is an otolaryngologist and Chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia. He specializes in disorders of the nose and sinuses, including allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and nasal inflammation. Dr. Gudis is dedicated to helping patients understand the root causes of their symptoms and access effective, personalized treatments that improve daily life and overall wellbeing.

Gut Health, Fiber, and the Microbiome, Explained Mar 25, 2026

Show notes

What does your gut really do—and how can you keep it healthy? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. Haley Zylberberg, a gastroenterologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to find out the basics of gut health, from digestion and the microbiome to fiber, fermented foods, and the gut‑brain connection.

Dr. Zylberberg explains how fiber supports digestion, why everyone’s “normal” gut function looks different, and how stress and mental health can directly affect the digestive system. She also shares signs of a healthy gut, red flags that shouldn’t be ignored, and why colorectal cancer screening is so important—especially as younger adults are being diagnosed more often.

Whether you’re curious about probiotics, wondering how much fiber you really need, or looking to better understand your body, this episode offers practical, science‑backed guidance to help support lifelong gut health.

Chapters:

00:00 – The Basics of Gut Health and the Microbiome
What the gut is, how digestion works, and why the microbiome plays a critical role in overall health.

06:30 – Fiber, Food, and Supporting Your Gut
How fiber supports digestion, how much you need each day, common misconceptions, and tips for increasing fiber safely.

11:30 – The Gut‑Brain Connection
How stress affects digestion, why the gut and brain communicate so closely, and what that means for digestive symptoms.

15:10 – Red Flags and Colorectal Cancer Screening
Warning signs of an unhealthy gut, when to see a doctor, and why colorectal cancer screening is essential and preventive.

Key Topics Covered

· Gut anatomy and digestion

· The gut microbiome and “good” bacteria

· Fiber benefits and daily fiber intake

· Fermented foods and probiotics

· Gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea

· The gut‑brain connection and stress

· Red flag digestive symptoms

· Colorectal cancer prevention and screening guidelines

Takeaway Message
Your gut plays a central role in your overall health, and small, consistent habits—like eating enough fiber, managing stress, and knowing what’s normal for your body—can make a big difference. Paying attention to changes and staying up to date with recommended screenings can help catch problems early and even prevent serious disease.

Expert Guest

Dr. Haley Zylberberg’s clinical focus is general gastroenterology, with a specialization in celiac disease. She has a sustained interest in patient-outcomes research using large databases and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles on celiac disease diagnosis and its clinical manifestations.

Dr. Zylberberg earned her B.A. in neuroscience and behavior from Columbia University and her medical degree at Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine, where she graduated with a distinction in research. She completed internal medicine residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital, followed by a gastroenterology fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she served as chief fellow. During her fellowship, Dr. Zylberberg undertook advanced training in research methods, culminating in a master's degree in patient-oriented research from Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health.

Diet and Your Heart: Can What You Eat Improve Your Numbers? Feb 25, 2026

Show notes

How much can what you eat really influence your heart health — and how quickly can you improve your blood pressure or cholesterol through diet? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with cardiologist Dr. Sean Mendez of NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital to break down the real connection between food and cardiovascular wellbeing.

They explore what your health numbers mean — from blood pressure ranges to LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and the emerging marker ApoB — and how these values signal current or future risk. Dr. Mendez explains how dietary shifts can lower LDL cholesterol by 3 to 15 percent and reduce blood pressure by several points, even without medication. He also discusses salt sensitivity, the impact of saturated fats and processed foods, and why soluble fiber, healthy fats, and whole foods can play a powerful role in improving cholesterol.

The conversation dives into the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet, outlining how each works, what they emphasize, and the evidence behind their ability to reduce blood pressure and overall cardiovascular risk. Dr. Mendez offers practical tips for getting started and key lifestyle factors that are essential for heart health.

Whether you're hoping to lower your numbers, prevent future heart issues, or simply make more informed choices at the grocery store, this episode provides clear, accessible guidance on building a heart‑healthy way of eating.

Chapters:

01:13 – What Do Heart Health Numbers Mean?

04:33 – How Quickly Diet Changes Improve Labs

10:59 – How to Start Changing Eating Habits

Key Topics Covered

What cholesterol, blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and ApoB measure
How these numbers relate to cardiovascular disease risk
Healthy ranges for blood pressure and cholesterol
How diet can lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure
How quickly lab results change after modifying eating habits
The role of salt sensitivity and saturated fats in heart health
Foods that help lower LDL, including soluble fiber and healthy fats
The DASH diet: its structure, purpose, and evidence for lowering blood pressure
The Mediterranean diet: core foods, flexibility, and cardiovascular benefits
Differences between DASH and Mediterranean diets
Practical starting points for improving eating habits
Benefits of tracking food intake and identifying patterns
Easy, heart‑healthy food and snack swaps
Why lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, exercise, and limiting alcohol matter
Common misconceptions about eating for heart health
Why heart‑healthy eating is beneficial at every age

Takeaway Message
Small, consistent changes to your diet and lifestyle can meaningfully improve your heart health — at any age. Understanding your numbers (like LDL, blood pressure, and ApoB) empowers you to make targeted choices, and evidence‑based eating patterns such as the DASH or Mediterranean diet can lower risk over time. Even if medications are part of your care, diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management remain essential tools for protecting your heart.

Expert Guest

Dr. Sean Mendez is a non-invasive cardiologist at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn-Methodist Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine.

His clinical interests include preventive cardiology, valvular heart disease, and cardiovascular imaging, including echocardiography, stress testing, and vascular imaging. In addition to seeing patients in his outpatient clinic, he provides inpatient care in the cardiac care unit, cardiac telemetry unit, and consultative cardiology service. Dr. Mendez is passionate about providing his patients with the highest-quality, comprehensive cardiovascular care. He addresses all aspects of health to prevent the development and progression of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Mendez, a native of Buffalo, New York, graduated magna cum laude from the University of Alabama with a bachelor's degree in both biology and mathematics. He attended medical school at the University at Buffalo, where he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society. Dr. Mendez then completed his residency in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. He then completed his fellowship in cardiology at the Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was chief fellow.

For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.

Is ‘Cozy Cardio’ as Effective as High-Intensity Workouts? Feb 11, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Jessica Hennessey, cardiologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, about the trend of cozy cardio and how accessible, home‑based movement can support cardiovascular health. Dr. Hennessey explains why moderate‑intensity exercise is both sustainable and effective, offering improvements in cardiovascular function, metabolism, and daily energy levels.

The discussion explores the benefits of walking versus running, how heart rate zones help guide workout intensity, and the importance of rest and active recovery. Dr. Hennessey also highlights how movement helps regulate stress and why strength training—especially for women—is essential for long‑term metabolic and bone health.

Chapters:

Chapter 1: Understanding Cozy Cardio – Convenience, Comfort, and Where it Fits in Heart Health

Understanding cozy cardio and how low‑impact movement supports heart health, and how it lowers barriers to exercise and makes movement feel inviting.
Chapter 2: Why Moderate Exercise Matters

Chapter 3: Cozy Doesn’t Mean Easy—Just Accessible

Chapter 4: Walking vs. Running: Which Is Better for the Heart?

Chapter 5: Using Heart Rate to Guide Your Workout

Chapter 6: The Importance of Rest Days and Recovery

Chapter 7: HIIT: Benefits, Risks, and When to Use It

Chapter 8: Strength Training & Heart Health, Especially for Women

Chapter 9: Building a Sustainable Exercise Routine

Chapter 10: Final Takeaway

Key Topics Covered

What cozy cardio is and examples
How cozy cardio focuses on convenience, comfort and lowering barriers to exercise.
Moderate vs. High-Intensity Exercise
- How it can improve VO2 max
Accessibility and sustainability in fitness
Walking vs. running
Using heart rate as a guide for exercise
The importance of rest days
Exercise as stress reduction
HIIT workouts: explanation, benefits and risk
Strength training and heart health
Building a sustainable routine by choosing activities you enjoy and making movement a natural part of the day

Takeaway Message
Meaningful improvements in cardiovascular health do not require high‑intensity workouts. Moderate, accessible forms of exercise—such as “cozy cardio”—can effectively enhance heart and metabolic function, support stress regulation, and promote long‑term adherence. By prioritizing comfort, sustainability, and consistency, individuals can integrate movement into their daily routines in ways that are both achievable and beneficial for overall health.

Expert Guest

Dr. Jessica Hennessey is an electrophysiologist who specializes in arrhythmia management with a special focus on catheter ablation, pacemakers/defibrillators, and atrial fibrillation at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Dr. Hennessey is also the Esther Aboodi Assistant Professor of Cardiology (in medicine) at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She is board-certified in cardiovascular disease and cardiac electrophysiology.

For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.

How Does Alcohol Change Your Brain? Jan 28, 2026

Show notes

What really happens in your brain when you drink alcohol — and what are the long-term effects over a lifetime? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. Hugh Cahill, a neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian the One and Columbia, to break down the science behind alcohol’s impact on brain health.

They explore how alcohol affects neurotransmitters to create feelings of relaxation and euphoria, why it can impair memory, coordination, and judgment, and how even moderate drinking is linked to increase risk of brain shrinkage, vascular damage, mood disorders, and dementia. Dr. Cahill also explains the cumulative nature of alcohol’s effects and shares practical, evidence-based ways to protect your brain as you age — highlighting the powerful role of exercise, cardiovascular health, nutrition, sleep, and reducing alcohol intake.

Whether you’re curious about Dry January, worried about memory and aging, or simply want to make informed choices about your health, this conversation offers clear, expert insight into how your habits today shape your brain tomorrow.

Key Topics Covered

How alcohol affects neurotransmitters (glutamate, GABA, dopamine, endorphins)
Why alcohol causes relaxation, lowered inhibition, and impaired coordination
Long-term effects: brain atrophy, neuron loss, memory impairment
Alcohol as a neurotoxin
Links between alcohol and:
- Cumulative, lifelong impact of drinking—even at low to moderate levels
- Role of exercise in promoting neurogenesis and brain resilience
- Importance of cardiovascular health, vitamins (B1, B12), and metabolic health
- Limited evidence that puzzles or brain games prevent cognitive decline
- Practical brain-health strategies

Takeaway Message
Brain health is shaped by long-term habits. Because alcohol’s effects are cumulative and even moderate use is linked to structural and vascular brain changes, reducing intake — along with exercising and managing cardiovascular risk factors—can meaningfully protect cognitive function and quality of life as we age.

Expert Guest

Dr. Hugh Cahill is an M.D./Ph.D.-trained general neurologist providing comprehensive care for patients with a broad range of neurological conditions at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Cahill sees individuals with headaches, seizures, strokes, numbness, weakness, memory changes, and other common neurological concerns. Dr. Cahill as both a clinician and scientist supports an evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment, with an emphasis on careful evaluation and clear communication.

For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.

Can Biohacking Reverse the Aging Process? Jan 14, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Rekha Kumar, endocrinologist and primary care physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to unpack the science behind aging well. They discuss biohacking, longevity, and health span, separating evidence-based strategies from social media hype and exploring what truly helps us age well.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

What “biohacking” really means

● How biohacking ranges from simple lifestyle optimization to high-tech, experimental interventions

● The difference between lifespan (how long you live) and health span (how long you live well)

The Longevity Pyramid

● Why the foundation of healthy aging is built on:

Sleep
Movement and strength training
Nutrition
Stress management
Social connection

● How advanced tools and supplements sit at the top—and why they should never replace the basics

Wearables and Tracking

● How devices like smartwatches, glucose monitors, and fitness trackers can support behavior change

● When tracking becomes counterproductive or stressful

Peptides and “Anti-Aging” Supplements

● What’s proven (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists)

● What’s still experimental or under-studied (BPC-157, sermorelin, NAD boosters)

Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancers

● Everyday nootropics like caffeine

● The role of L-theanine for “calm focus”

● Myths around perfectly timed caffeine and cortisol rhythms

Nutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition

● How genes can influence responses to foods (e.g., lactose intolerance, APOE and saturated fat)

● Why many direct-to-consumer genetic tests may overpromise

The Gut Microbiome

● The role of Akkermansia muciniphila in metabolic health

● How medications like metformin and GLP-1s may positively shift gut bacteria

● What’s still unknown about probiotic supplementation

Genetic and Biomarker Testing

● The difference between actionable medical insights and “information overload”

● Why results of unknown significance can cause unnecessary anxietyThe Big Takeaways

● There are no true shortcuts to longevity

● Sustainable habits beat quick fixes

● Our biology is built for rhythms, not constant optimization

Featured Expert

About Rekha B. Kumar, M.D., M.S.

Dr. Rekha B. Kumar is an attending endocrinologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an associate professor of Clinical Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. She specializes in adult primary care and endocrinology and has academic expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various endocrine disorders, including obesity/weight management, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, as well as metabolic bone disease.

Dr. Kumar completed her undergraduate studies at Duke University and received her masters degree in Physiology from Georgetown University. She received her M.D. from New York Medical College and completed her residency training in Internal Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Kumar obtained her clinical fellowship in the combined Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism program at the NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Kumar is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes, & Metabolism, and Obesity Medicine.

Coming Up Next

In the next episode of Health Matters, we’ll explore brain health and the short- and long-term effects of alcohol on the brain with Dr. Hugh Cahill. Subscribe and follow Health Matters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to stay up to date with expert-driven conversations on living well at every stage of life.

About Health Matters

Health Matters is your bi-weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

ADVANCES IN CARE: Exploring Psychedelics as the Next Wave of Psychiatric Innovation Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

This week on Health Matters, we’re sharing an episode of NewYork-Presbyterian’s Advances in Care, a show for listeners who want to stay at the forefront of the latest medical innovations and research.

On this episode of Advances in Care, host Erin Welsh first hears from Dr. Richard Friedman, a clinical psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine. Using his background in psychopharmacology, Dr. Friedman distinguishes between psychedelics and standard antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, explaining the various mechanisms in the brain that respond uniquely to psychedelic compounds. Dr. Friedman also identifies that the challenge of proving efficacy of psychedelic therapy lies in the question of how to design a clinical trial that gives patients a convincing placebo.

To learn more about the challenges of trial design, Erin also speaks to Dr. David Hellerstein, a research psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Hellerstein contributed to a 2022 trial of synthetic psilocybin in patients with treatment resistant depression. He and his colleagues took a unique approach to dosing patients so that they could better understand the response rates of patients who use psychedelic therapy. The results of that trial underscore an emerging pattern in the field of psychiatry – that while psychedelic therapy has its risks, it’s also a promising alternative treatment for countless psychiatric disorders. Dr. Hellerstein also shares more about the future of clinical research on psychedelic therapies to potentially treat a range of mental health disorders.

***

Dr. Richard Friedman is a professor of clinical psychiatry and is actively involved in clinical research of mood disorders. In particular, he is involved in several ongoing randomized clinical trials of both approved and investigational drugs for the treatment of major depression, chronic depression, and dysthymia.

Dr. David J. Hellerstein directs the Depression Evaluation Service at Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, which conducts studies on the medication and psychotherapy treatment of conditions including major depression, chronic depression, and bipolar disorder.

___

Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.

If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

The Top Takeaways From This Year of Health Matters Dec 10, 2025

Show notes

This week on Health Matters, Courtney is joined by Erin Welsh, host of NewYork-Presbyterian’s medical research podcast, Advances in Care, to recap an amazing year of health and wellness conversations. They share highlights and discuss the top takeaways from their dozens of conversations with clinicians, researchers – and even a former New York Mets All-Star. This conversation is a great rundown of important health reminders and tips for all of us concerned with staying healthy during the holidays and starting the new year off on the right foot.

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Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

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