How does your mental well-being shape your physical intimacy? The connection between our minds and bodies goes deeper than you might think.

In this episode, hosts Meredith Cunningham and Brooklyn Elbert welcome back Covenant Children’s Senior Mental Health Counselor, Kara Pepper, for a conversation about how mental health influences physical relationships and intimacy. From anxiety and depression to trauma and self-esteem, Kara shares insights into how emotional wellness can either strengthen or strain our closest connections and offers guidance and tools to foster healthier, more fulfilling intimate relationships.

One of those tools? A simple but powerful communication formula: “I feel, because, so I need.” Kara explains how this approach can help partners express emotions clearly and build a deeper understanding.

Kara Pepper Bio:

Kara Pepper is a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a BA in Psychology from Texas Tech University (2019) and a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University (2021). Specializing in supporting women and families with babies in the NICU, Kara works to provide essential emotional support and therapy regarding a variety of issues and concerns.

Kara prioritizes balance in her professional life by spending time with her spouse and their goldendoodle, Rudder, as well as through spending time with her church community and attending TTU sporting events. With a blend of professional expertise and heartfelt empathy, Kara is dedicated to fostering healthy relationships and making a positive impact in the lives of her clients.

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Migraines aren’t just a bad headache. They’re a full body experience that can derail your day and disrupt your life. Join us as we discuss this neurological condition affecting nearly one in five women.

In this episode, Hosts Meredith Cunningham and Brooklyn Elbert welcome back Covenant Health Neurologist Dr. Katie Hendley to discuss migraines, a neurological condition that affects nearly one in five women.

As both a physician and someone who experiences migraines herself, Dr. Hendley offers a personal and professional perspective on what defines a migraine, how it differs from a typical headache, and symptoms like aura. She also shares expert insights on the role hormones in migraine patterns and the connection between migraines and stroke risk.

Dr. Katie Hendley Bio:

Dr. Hendley began her academic journey at Texas Tech University, where she graduated with an honors degree in biology. She then earned her medical degree from the University of Texas at Houston Medical School. Upon graduation, she stayed at UT-Houston to complete her residency and fellowship training in neurology, specifically in movement disorders, where she served as Chief Resident. She has practiced with Covenant Medical Group here in Lubbock, TX since 2011. She currently serves at the state level as president of the Texas Neurological Society and locally as the chair of the Continuing Medical Education Committee.  

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Your gut might be controlling more than just digestion. It could be affecting your mood and energy levels. Tune in to discover tips for nourishing your gut and learn why it just might be the key to unlocking a healthier, happier you.

In this episode, hosts Meredith Cunningham and Brooklyn Elbert welcome Jordyn Dalby, nurse practitioner at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates, to explore the essential role gut health plays in women’s overall health. From common digestive issues to the latest trends in gut health, Jordyn breaks down what you need to know to support your system naturally and effectively.

Jordyn Dalby, NP Bio:

Jordyn Dalby is a nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates. She sees patient both in clinic and in the hospital at Covenant Medical Center. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children.

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In this special recap episode of Health Her Way, we’re looking back at the incredible conversations we’ve had with our expert guests so far. From overarching lessons to eye-opening statistics, we’re highlighting the key takeaways we’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re new to the podcast or have been with us from the start, this episode is a great way to revisit the most impactful moments from each of our guests.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into a specific episode, be sure to check out the full episode for the complete conversation.

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Painful periods, trouble getting pregnant, and hormonal chaos might not just be bad luck. PCOS or endometriosis could be the culprit.

In Part 2 of this two-part series, we’re joined again by OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Specialist Dr. Jennifer Phy to unpack the truth about endometriosis, a condition that impacts many but is often misunderstood and difficult to diagnose. She dives into the signs, treatment options, and how endometriosis can impact fertility and everyday life.

Dr. Phy Bio:

Dr. Jennifer Phy is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and subspecialty board certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. After completing her OB-GYN residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Dr. Phy completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She has practiced in Lubbock since 2004.

Dr. Phy believes in taking care of patients as she would a friend or family member. She focuses on explaining the often-intricate details of each patient's diagnosis and treatment options and believes it's very important to include the patient in the decision-making process of their treatment plan. Dr. Phy hopes to make a positive impact by helping women who have difficulties conceiving.

In her free time, Dr. Phy loves to spend time outdoors with her family, cheering on her favorite sports teams, traveling, and learning about different cultures.

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Painful periods, trouble getting pregnant, and hormonal chaos might not just be bad luck. PCOS or endometriosis could be the culprit. 

In Part 1 of this two-part series, we’re joined by OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Specialist Dr. Jennifer Phy to dive into Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that impacts 1 in 9 women but is often misunderstood or overlooked. From irregular cycles and fertility challenges to acne and insulin resistance, Dr. Phy unpacks what PCOS really is, how it impacts hormonal and metabolic health, and what steps women can take to manage symptoms and advocate for their care. 

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Dr. Phy returns to discuss endometriosis and its impact on women’s reproductive and overall health.

Dr. Phy Bio:

Dr. Jennifer Phy is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and subspecialty board certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. After completing her OB-GYN residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Dr. Phy completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She has practiced in Lubbock since 2004.

Dr. Phy believes in taking care of patients as she would a friend or family member. She focuses on explaining the often-intricate details of each patient's diagnosis and treatment options and believes it's very important to include the patient in the decision-making process of their treatment plan. Dr. Phy hopes to make a positive impact by helping women who have difficulties conceiving.

In her free time, Dr. Phy loves to spend time outdoors with her family, cheering on her favorite sports teams, traveling, and learning about different cultures.

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They say, "knowledge is power" and there may be no truer statement than when it comes to your health. Join us as we dive into the world of genetic counseling and explore how expert guidance can empower individuals with crucial insights about their genetic health and future planning.

In this episode, hosts Meredith Cunningham and Brooklyn Elbert welcome Julie Beasley, oncology genetic counselor at Covenant Health’s Joe Arrington Cancer Center, to discuss the role of genetic testing and counseling in guiding cancer risk, prevention, and care, as well as a range of other conditions. Whether you’re navigating a personal or family history of illness or simply curious about your genetic health, this conversation offers valuable insights into how genetic counseling can inform and empower your health care journey.

Julie Beasley, MS, CGC Bio:

Julie Beasley is an Oncology Genetic Counselor at Joe Arrington Cancer Center. Prior to joining Joe Arrington Cancer Center, she worked as a pediatric and adult genetic counselor at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City from 2007-2013 and then as an oncology genetic counselor at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City from 2013-2016. She has been at Joe Arrington Cancer Center since 2016.

Julie completed a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. In addition to her graduate-level training, she completed the City of Hope’s Intensive Course in Cancer Risk Assessment in 2013 to further her knowledge of hereditary cancer.

Julie is board-certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling and a member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors.

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For more information about genetic counseling at Covenant Health’s Joe Arrington Cancer Center, or to schedule an appointment, call (806)725-8082.

Many of us love soaking up the sun, but did you know melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is becoming increasingly common? Even if you feel invincible now, early detection and prevention are key to maintaining healthy skin.

In this episode, hosts Meredith Cunningham and Brooklyn Elbert welcome Nurse Practitioner Stacy Hughes to discuss what you need to know about skin cancer. They dive into the different types, the most common (and surprising) risk factors, practical prevention tips you can start using today, and more.

Stacy Hughes, NP, Bio:

Stacy Hughes is a Nurse Practitioner specializing in hematology and medical oncology at Covenant Health’s Joe Arrington Cancer Center. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition with a minor in Chemistry from Texas Tech University in 2006, followed by her BSN from Regis University in Denver, Colorado in 2008. Stacy served as an officer in the U.S. Navy Nursing Corps from 2009 to 2012 and remained in the inactive reserves until 2017. She joined Covenant Health in 2012 as a nurse educator and became a Nurse Practitioner in 2017. Outside of work, Stacy enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children.

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Email: Healthherway@covhs.org