In this reflective episode of Vitals and Values, David Roden and Lara Baatenburg open up about how faith anchors their ambition and shapes their work in medicine, leadership, and personal growth. From navigating uncertainty to managing anxiety and embracing the unknown, they share the lessons they’ve learned while building a practice grounded in purpose. The conversation explores how trusting in God’s plan—even in moments of fear or chaos—has helped them stay focused, resilient, and hopeful. Whether you’re building something new or wrestling with ambition, this episode offers encouragement and insight for walking in obedience while striving for excellence.

In this episode, Dr. Lara and David Roden take a closer look at the booming world of online lab testing, with a particular focus on Function Health. They discuss how these services aim to promote longevity and wellness, but also outline the limitations, from false positives to misinterpreted results. The conversation covers the nuances of hormone testing, cholesterol panels, and nutritional labs—emphasizing that lab results only matter when interpreted in context. Whether you’re curious about ordering labs yourself or want to understand what those results really mean, this episode will help you ask better questions, reduce anxiety, and make smarter health decisions.

In this episode, David Roden and Lara unpack the science—and the hype—around collagen. From its different types and dietary sources to the rise of collagen powders and “vegan” claims, they break down what the research actually says about this popular supplement. Is collagen really the secret to glowing skin and joint relief? Or just another wellness trend with clever marketing? They share clinical insights, caution against relying on low-quality studies, and emphasize that while collagen may have some benefits, it’s just one small piece of a much bigger health picture.