Common ENT Conditions and When to Refer with Ashley Agan, MD

Dr. Richa Mittal shares how she built a direct primary care practice centered on obesity and lifestyle medicine—with prevention, deep patient relationships, and holistic care at its core. Tired of rushed visits and surface-level fixes, she embraced the direct care model for more time, access, and autonomy. Now, she tackles root causes, weaves in emotional and social wellness, and guides patients through sustainable change—no perfection required. Dr. Mittal also helps other doctors launch their own direct care practices, reminding them: don’t go it alone, and trust the process.Takeaways:Direct primary care allows for more time and access with patients to address the root causes of their health struggles.A holistic approach to patient care integrates social, emotional, and lifestyle aspects.Setting realistic goals and focusing on progress over perfection is key to sustainable lifestyle changes.Practice consulting and support from others in the field can help physicians navigate the challenges of starting a direct care practice.The direct care model is evolving and becoming more popular as physicians seek autonomy and flexibility in their practice.Dr. Richa Mittal is the Founder and Medical Director of Radiant Health Weight Loss and Wellness in Frisco, Texas. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Obesity Medicine, and Lifestyle Medicine, she offers a holistic, integrative approach to medical weight management, metabolic health, and diabetes care. Her practice combines personalized medical care with nutritional counseling, culinary coaching, and health coaching.A frequent speaker and writer, Dr. Mittal shares insights on preventive health, nutrition, and healthy recipes through her blog and social media. She also mentors physicians on starting direct care practices. Dr. Mittal lives in the Dallas suburbs with her husband and two children and enjoys Pilates, cooking, reading, and traveling.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Nadia Mostovych shares her journey through early career decisions in medicine, focusing on mentorship, burnout, and the transition from residency to practice. She describes her unique path from rhythmic gymnastics to becoming a dual board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, discussing the challenges and insights gained along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of finding the right specialty, navigating job offers, and recognizing red flags in career choices—especially for women in medicine. Dr. Mostovych also opens up about the complexities of starting her own medical practice, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, the challenges of navigating expectations in a new role, and the business side of medicine. She discusses the breaking point that led her to seek independence and her current efforts to establish a new practice while balancing family life. Dr. Mostovych underscores the significance of trusting one’s instincts and taking calculated risks in a career filled with uncertainties.Takeaways: The competitive nature of surgery, particularly for women, makes mentorship, supportive colleagues, and careful contract negotiation essential.Nadia pursued a fellowship in facial plastic surgery to align her surgical skills with her artistic eye and desire to help patients feel confident.Transitioning from residency to practice comes with challenges, including understanding contracts, navigating referrals, and recognizing red flags in job offers.From learning the business of medicine to building a new practice, Nadia emphasizes the importance of calculated risks, planning, and trusting your instincts.Dr. Nadia Mostovych is a dual board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon currently building her private practice in Bend, Oregon. After completing ten years of medical training—including residency in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery and a prestigious fellowship in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery—she spent four years in private practice before relocating to Oregon. Dr. Mostovych is passionate about the intersection of art and surgery and finds purpose in helping patients feel more confident in themselves. She’s actively involved in mentorship and committed to supporting others—both in and outside of medicine—to reach their goals.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Jesse Feist, a healthcare marketing professional, talks about the fundamentals of SEO for healthcare providers and practices. She discusses the importance of effective marketing strategies for clinicians and the role of SEO in increasing new patient visits and conversion to treatment. Jesse emphasizes the significance of optimizing Google My Business profiles and developing a review request strategy. Jesse encourages clinicians to take ownership of their reputation and highlights the value of long-term, slow growth approaches to marketing.TakeawaysOptimizing Google My Business profiles and developing a review request strategy are essential for healthcare providers to increase new patient visits and conversion to treatment.Prioritizing content optimization based on what patients are searching for is more effective than focusing on social media, especially for essential healthcare providers.Clinicians should take ownership of their reputation and invest in their Google My Business profile, as it is the most impactful starting point for earning new patient visits.A slow growth approach and a realistic, long-term strategy are recommended for healthcare marketing, rather than relying solely on paid advertising.Clinicians should focus on optimizing content around early symptoms and conditions that patients are searching for, rather than niche topics with low search volume.Jesse Fiest is a healthcare marketing professional with over a decade of experience in reproductive healthcare and family building. She discovered her passion for SEO and digital marketing while recruiting gestational carriers and now serves as the Director of Product and Physician Marketing at Kindbody, leading a team focused on referrals, reputation management, and content optimization.An active RESOLVE volunteer, Jesse has leveraged her proximity to Washington, DC, to support federal legislative change, co-chairing Federal Advocacy Day in 2020 and 2021 to achieve record participation. She is a trusted expert in reputational SEO, helping healthcare providers strengthen their online presence. With a background in cultural anthropology and law, she excels in navigating regulated markets and enjoys learning from her colleagues, exploring generative AI, and embracing Midwestern friendliness. Jesse and her husband coach their 7-year-old daughter's soccer team.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Ashley Agan, a board-certified otolaryngologist, provides an in-depth exploration of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health, breaking down the fundamentals in an accessible and informative way. With a strong passion for lifestyle medicine, Dr. Agan shares how she integrates holistic and preventive approaches into her treatment plans to optimize patient outcomes. She delves into common ENT conditions, offering valuable insights on when to seek specialist care and the key signs that warrant a referral. Additionally, Dr. Agan emphasizes the importance of aligning medical decisions and lifestyle choices with personal values, empowering individuals to take a proactive role in their health and well-being.TakeawaysSudden hearing loss is an ENT emergency that requires immediate treatment with high-dose steroids.Recurrent ear infections, sinus infections, and tonsillitis are common conditions that can be effectively treated with surgery.Avoid using Q-tips to clean ears as it can push wax against the eardrum or cause injury.Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as a whole food plant-based diet, can improve ENT conditions like allergies and reflux.Aligning actions with personal values can lead to greater peace and fulfillment in both personal and professional life.Dr. Ashley Agan is a board-certified otolaryngologist, podcaster, wife, toddler mom, and founder of a concierge ENT practice in Dallas, TX called Scottie.  She completed her residency at UT Southwestern Medical Center.  She served as a faculty member at UT Southwestern for 7 years, holding leadership roles in otolaryngology education and patient care.  She specializes in ear, nose, and throat disorders, particularly eustachian tube disorders.  Dr. Agan is one of only a handful of otolaryngologists in the country treating patulous eustachian tube.  She is also a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and is an advocate for the power of lifestyle medicine to improve patient outcomes. Outside of her career, Dr. Agan enjoys family time, traveling, gardening, and strength training. She hosts the BackTable ENT podcast, contributing to peer education on emerging research and healthcare trends.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Laura Vater, an oncologist and advocate for clinician well-being discusses the importance of humanism in medicine, the emotional toll of oncology, and the need for systemic changes to support healthcare professionals. Dr. Vater shares her personal experiences that led her to advocate for clinician well-being, including her development of the Smile Scale, a tool designed to help clinicians assess their health and well-being. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by women in medicine, the importance of support systems, and strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Dr. Vater emphasizes the need for a culture shift in the medical community to prioritize mental health and reduce burnout among healthcare providers.TakeawaysAdvocating for clinician well-being is essential for sustainable healthcare.Sleep deprivation negatively impacts clinician performance and empathy.Support systems are crucial for maintaining clinician well-being.Work-life balance is achievable with clear boundaries and support.Presence in patient care is vital for effective healthcare delivery.Laura B. Vater, MD, MPH, is a writer, advocate for clinician health, TEDx speaker, and oncologist at the Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center. She is a member of the Pegasus Physician Writers at Stanford University and has published a number of narrative medicine essays. In 2022, her writing was featured in Pulitzer-Prize winning author Anna Quindlen’s book, Write for your Life. She also developed a tool to help patients and clinicians prioritize their health (The SMILE ScaleTM).She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Doctor of Medicine from Indiana University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Oncology at Indiana University. She was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society in 2018 and is a member of the IU School of Medicine Honor Roll. She was also awarded the American Medical Women’s Association Charlotte Edwards Maguire, MD Outstanding Resident Mentor Award in 2022. Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Arti Thangudu shares her inspiring journey into direct primary care, highlighting the need for a healthcare system that truly prioritizes both patients and physicians. She pulls back the curtain on the challenges of traditional healthcare, from insurance complexities to limited doctor-patient interaction, and explains how direct primary care offers a refreshing alternative—one that provides better access, price transparency, and a stronger doctor-patient connection. With her expertise in endocrinology, Dr. Thangudu sheds light on common hormonal issues, the most frequent concerns she addresses, and the treatments that make a real difference in patients' lives. She also dives into the financial side of healthcare, empowering both patients and physicians to take control of their medical decisions. TakeawaysDirect primary care provides better access and price transparency for patients.Building strong doctor-patient relationships is crucial for effective healthcare.Understanding the financial aspects of healthcare is important for physicians and patients.Endocrinology encompasses a wide range of hormonal conditions, including diabetes, thyroid disease, menopause, and adrenal and pituitary diseases.Dr. Arti Thangudu is a triple board-certified Endocrinologist specializing in diabetes, obesity, and metabolic health. She founded Complete Medicine, a direct specialty care clinic offering expert, relationship-based care with clear pricing, and HeyHealthy, a company helping businesses lower healthcare costs by improving employee health. Passionate about patient-centered care, she integrates medical expertise with lifestyle optimization, focusing on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management. She educates and empowers women via social media, providing insights on diabetes, hormonal health, and navigating healthcare. Dr. Thangudu earned her MD from UT Health San Antonio, training at Baylor, Tulane, and UPMC. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, and Lifestyle Medicine, she’s transforming endocrine care. A wife to an ICU physician and mother of two, she’s committed to making healthcare more effective, accessible, and transparent.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Kristen Cain, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist, gets real about the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding medical career. She opens up about the struggle of managing “mom guilt,” the power of hiring competent help, and why women in academic medicine need to advocate for themselves. With personal stories and hard-earned wisdom, Dr. Cain shares her journey through career transitions, the pressures mothers face—especially during the holidays—and the freedom that comes from focusing on what truly matters. Her insights serve as a powerful reminder that it’s possible to chase your passion, set boundaries, and let go of the rest.TakeawaysAsk for exactly what you need at home and work.Women should advocate for themselves in academia.Don't be afraid to negotiate your worth.It's okay to outsource tasks you don't enjoy.You can't do it all; competent help is essential.Dr. Kristen Cain is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist and a married mother of three. Dr. Cain graduated from Jamestown College in North Dakota, and completed medical school at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. She completed an internship in Internal Medicine at UVA in Charlottesville, VA before returning to Johns Hopkins for her residency in Ob/Gyn. completing her fellowship at UCLA. She writes extensively on the topic of work-life balance and practices in Atlanta GA. When not working, writing or doing political advocacy, she has a lot of fun!  She can be found at @drkcain on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, LinkedIn and Threads.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Lilly Khavari, a board-certified foot and ankle specialist, shares her journey into podiatry and her passion for pediatric and minimally invasive surgery. She breaks down the rigorous path to becoming a podiatrist and offers expert insights on common foot health issues like sprained ankles, plantar fasciitis, and pedicure hygiene. After facing challenges in group practices, Dr. Khavari took a leap of faith to open her own practice, prioritizing patient care on her terms. She shares the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, advice for young physicians, and the power of mindset, self-care, and building strong professional relationships.TakeawaysBuilding a supportive network and seeking proper guidance are crucial when starting a practice.Delegating tasks and focusing on what you do best can help alleviate burnout and improve efficiency.Building relationships with referring doctors requires personal connections, follow-up, and appreciation.Self-care and maintaining a positive mindset are essential for success in running a practice.Dr. Khavari is a board certified, surgically trained foot and ankle specialist focusing on pediatric and diabetic foot care, sports injuries, as well as acute and chronic conditions of the foot and ankle. She is a physician-owner of Carrollton Foot Center in Carrollton, Texas.  She is an educator and a national speaker. Dr. Khavari completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at the University of Texas at Dallas. She then attended Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine in Miami, Fla. At Michigan Surgical Hospital in Warren, Mich., Dr. Khavari completed three years of extensive surgical training in foot and ankle surgery and served as chief resident at the Kern Medical residency program. She currently serves on the Executive board of the Texas Podiatric Medical Association and the chair of their communications committee.  Dr. Khavari is a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine and a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association, Texas Podiatric Medical Association, American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management, and the American Association for Women Podiatrists.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Karen Tang’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention—moving from academia to private practice and harnessing the power of social media to transform her career. Once without any social media presence, she took a leap into platforms like Instagram and TikTok, not just to grow her practice but to educate and empower patients about reproductive health. In this episode, Dr. Tang shares how she found her voice online, the power of authenticity in building a brand, and how social media turned her into a trusted expert in her field.TakeawaysSocial media can be a powerful tool for building a practice and educating patients about important health topics.Finding your niche and being authentic are key to success on social media.Social media can help connect doctors with patients who are seeking specialized care or struggling to find doctors who take their concerns seriously.Writing a book can be a great way to reach a wider audience and provide comprehensive information about a specific topic.Don't be afraid to explore new opportunities and learn new skills. Karen Tang, MD, MPH is a board-certified gynecologist and minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon who is an internationally recognized leader in reproductive health. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Chicago, and her medical degree and masters in public health from Columbia University. She trained in obstetrics and gynecology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center / Harvard Medical School, and completed her fellowship in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery at Legacy Health in Portland, OR. She has taught medical students and residents at Harvard, University of Miami, University of Pennsylvania, and Main Line Health. As @KarenTangMD on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, she reaches millions of viewers each month with her educational videos that explain gynecologic health, pelvic pain, and reproductive rights in an entertaining and easily understandable way. Dr. Tang has been featured in The Washington Post, Self Magazine, Glamour, Philadelphia Magazine, the Huffington Post, NBC.com, and NPR, among others.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference

Dr. Katie Takayasu explores the power of integrative medicine, emphasizing a holistic, whole-body approach to health. She shares her personal journey, highlighting the four pillars of well-being—spiritual connection, movement, nutrition, and mindfulness. From improving sleep to fueling the body strategically, Dr. Takayasu offers practical tips for achieving balance. She also dives into the unique challenges women face in maintaining metabolism and the critical role of community support in medicine.TakeawaysPersonal health requires balance and flexibility in daily routines.Healthcare providers should focus on treating the whole person, not just parts. Spiritual connection is vital for overall health and well-being.Joyful movement is essential; find what you love to do.Recognizing oneself as part of a larger universe can alleviate stress.Empowering women in medicine involves sharing resources and support.Dr. Katie Takayasu is an Integrative Medicine physician, author of Plants First: A Physician’s Guide to Wellness Through a Plant-Forward Diet, and speaker in the holistic health space. She bridges the gap between traditional Western medicine and the evidenced-based complementary health tools of nutrition, acupuncture, meditation, botanicals and lifestyle optimization. She works one-on-one helping patients to recognize their own innate wisdom for finding balance in the mind, body and spirit and in group settings with the gentle but effective Dr. Katie Detox. Dr. Katie received her B.B.A. from the University of Michigan, her M.D. and M.B.A. from Wright State University, and her Family Medicine Residency from Columbia University/New York Presbyterian where she served as Chief Resident. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at Columbia University/New York Presbyterian. Discover Dr. Katie’s Life Kitchen at www.DrKatie.com, on Instagram @DoctorKatie, on LinkedIn @Dr.KatieTakayasu or in her collaborative healing center Wellness Insights in Darien, CT.Thanks for listening to The Pinnacle Prescription Podcast! Follow along Instagram, TikTok, and YouTubeLearn more about our annual conference