November 16, 2025 • 29 mins
This week on Kentucky Focus, Scott takes listeners inside two fast-growing issues shaping families across the Commonwealth and beyond. First, we explore a rapidly expanding corner of the health world—one that’s raising alarms among medical leaders as more people chase quick fixes without understanding the hidden risks. Then, we turn to an all-new national look at youth athletics, revealing surprising insights about participation, pressure, and the rising costs many families are struggling to keep up with. It’s a conversation that cuts through headlines, clears up confusion, and offers the kind of perspective every Kentucky household can use.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:03):
And welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. We've got
a great show lined up for you. First, we'll be
talking about a growing health concern affecting millions across the Commonwealth,
limited insurance coverage for FDA approved obesity medications and the
dangers of unsafe knockoffs.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
And later on we'll switch gears and talk to you
about youth sports. Well, the club sports is booming around
our state.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
How much do we really know about participation costs and
the pressure's family face.
Speaker 2 (00:29):
We'll talk to someone who's in the know.
Speaker 1 (00:31):
I'm Scott Fitzgerald and you're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (00:34):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens.
We cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 1 (00:54):
HI.
Speaker 4 (00:54):
I'm Vanessa Williams, and I want to share with you
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(01:16):
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(01:38):
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This message furnished by the National Association of Broadcasters.
Speaker 2 (03:24):
Well on today's Kentucky Folcus.
Speaker 1 (03:26):
We're tackling a growing health concern that's hitting Americans across
the country limited access to safe, effective treatments, Many patients
are turning to unsafe, unapproved medications known as compounded GLP
ones because insurance won't cover FDA approved options. Here to
explain the risks and what needs to change is doctor
Angela Fitch, Founder in chief medical officer, known well and
(03:47):
a leading expert in obesity medicine. Doctor Fitch, good morning
to you, Thanks.
Speaker 9 (03:51):
For joining us, Thank you for having me ktt Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:53):
Can you explain now what GLP one medications are and
why they become so important in treating obesity.
Speaker 9 (04:00):
Well, Obesity is really a chronic, treatable disease, and we
have had GLP one medications for over twenty years, but
they've become you know, via science, in the advancement of
science and research, they have become much more effective in
terms of managing our weight. Weight management is not a
problem with willpower. It is really an issue, a biological
(04:21):
issue that's complicated that oftentimes needs medication in addition to
lifestyle factors in order to be successful long term with
keeping the weight off.
Speaker 1 (04:30):
Right on talking with doctor Angela Fitch, founder of for
OBC Clinic, known well, leading expert in obesity medicine, and
we're talking about a growing health concern surrounding weight loss
and doctor Fitch, one of the biggest risks patients face
when using these unapproved compounded GLP one drugs, Well.
Speaker 9 (04:47):
Scott, you know, the issue is, you know, we see
a lot of patients at my clinic, which is called
known well at our clinic, you know, one of the
things that we see as patients coming in on some
of these compounded versions and frankly, you know, we don't know,
they don't know, we don't know what's in them, right,
is the problem we have. And they might be working
for some patients, but for many patients. You know, there's
(05:08):
data to show now that people who are taking a
compounded version versus an FDA version are twice as likely
to be hospitalized for various reasons, whether that's because of
some sort of impurity or something in the medication that
they're having a side effect from, or also just the
fact that dosing it can be difficult depending on the
fact that it's not always the same every time they
(05:29):
get it, and so the real issue is just it
not being the same as the FDA for approved versions.
Speaker 1 (05:35):
Doctor Angela Fitch is with us she's founder in chief
medical officer, known well leading expert, and she's a leading
expert in obcity medicine. And we're talking to her about
GLP ones and some of the dangers and risks and
insurance concerns, etc. And doctor Fitch are, how does limited
insurance coverage impact patients access to safe FDA approved treatments.
Speaker 9 (05:57):
Well, for decades now, obesity has not been treated as
other chronic diseases. So other chronic diseases like high blood
pressure or diabetes or heart disease, you know, you expect
to go into the doctor and be able to get
treatment for those conditions you know, covered by your insurance,
but obesity, because Medicare has never covered obesity, then commercial
(06:18):
insurance also doesn't cover obesity. It's been carved out from
our insurance system for decades. And that's really what's starting
to change overall is that as of last week, it
was announced that Medicare is now able to cover these
medications for certain Medicare beneficiaries starting as early as April
of next year, and then that'll continue to advance over
the next couple of years through innovations through CMS and others.
(06:43):
So we're hopeful that more patients will get access to
FDA approved treatment options over the course of the next
year or two.
Speaker 1 (06:50):
Very interesting doctor Angela Fitch again, founder and chief medical
officer at known Well and a leading expert in obesity medicine,
talking to us about GLP ones. So, Fish, why do
you think coverage for OBCD medication lags behind coverage for say,
diabetes or heart disease.
Speaker 9 (07:05):
Well, it was always very stigmatized. The idea was that
if you just ate less an exercise more, you could
control your weight. And we know now that that's not
the case in and of itself. Weight loss itself is
not a normal process for the human body. It is
abnormal to lose weight. So when you're trying to lose weight,
even if you have weight to lose, it becomes very
difficult to keep it off long term. And that's where
(07:27):
adding a medication to your lifestyle interventions that you're doing,
you know it can be extremely beneficial to patients, and
that's where we're hoping to get more and more access
to coverage of FDA approved versions of these medications so
patients can seek a health improvement. See the health improvements
as well, not just the weight loss.
Speaker 1 (07:47):
And doctor Fitch, if you could have the ear of policymakers, say,
insurance providers, and regulators to ensure patients have access to
safe treatments, what would you tell.
Speaker 9 (07:56):
Them, Well, I firmly believe that you know, large scale
compounding needs to star. Compounding was created to serve shortage times.
We do not have a shortage any longer of these medications,
and it was created to personalize one on one for
patients that need something personalized for them. In particular, the
mass compound that we have compounding that we see here
(08:18):
today under the guise of personalization is really just taking
advantage of a lot of Americans, and it's the largest uncontrolled, unconsented,
really human experiment of our time when patients don't even
realize oftentimes that they're not getting the FDA approved versions
of these medications.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
And final question for you, doctor Fitch, what can patients
do right now to make sure they're getting safe, effective
treatment for obesity.
Speaker 9 (08:44):
Well, the one thing I do encourage is that they
talk to their doctor right talk to your clinician that's
caring for you in the long run, because this is
a chronic condition and treating obesity across your lifetime. Again,
doing it for the health of it, not the weight
of it, not for aner on the scale, but achieving
health outcomes should really be our goal, and getting that
(09:05):
comprehensive care that every American deserves should be the goal
of all of us. To get coverage more broadly across
the country by both commercial payers, Medicare.
Speaker 2 (09:16):
And Medicaid agree one hundred percent.
Speaker 1 (09:18):
Doctor Angela Fitch, founder and chief medical officer at known
Well and a leading expert in obesity medicine talking to
us today of course about the popular GLP one drugs
and doctor Fitch. Finally, where can people find trustworthy resources
or guidance from your folks or where can they go
if they're listening to this and want to learn more?
Speaker 9 (09:35):
Yes, I often recommend the Obesity Action Coalition, which is
the patient advocacy arm for obesity. It's Obesityaction dot org.
You can also, of course go to known Well. We
see patients at fifty state virtually across the country, as
well as in person in six states, so look seek
out a clinician on the Obesit Action website. You can
(09:57):
also find clinicians in your local area that specialize in
b Seek here and seek out someone who is going
to take care of you for the long run, not
something shady that you're getting an ad for on the internet.
Speaker 2 (10:07):
Doctor fitz thank you so much.
Speaker 1 (10:09):
You've certainly given us a lot to think about, of course,
the risks of patient's face with unapproved medications and the
importance of insurance coverage for OBCD treatments. Coming up next,
we're shifting gears from health to the playing field. Welcome
in somebody who's in the note to talk about what's
driving today's youth club sports industry here in the Commonwealth
and what parents and athletes need to know. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
(10:31):
You are listening to Kentucky Focus.
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Where consumers are more likely to purchase coming off of
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He says traffic from AI platforms like CHATGPT and Perplexity,
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Adobe Analytics says consumer spent eighty eight point seven billion
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With tech trends. I'm Mike Debaski and we're.
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Live here outside the Perez family home, just waiting for
the and there they go, almost on time.
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This morning.
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Mom is coming out the front door strong with a
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Looks like dad has the bags. Daughter is bringing up
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Oh but the diaper bag wasn't closed.
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In the booster seat. Dad zips the bag closed and
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Speaker 1 (14:35):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
Speaker 17 (14:38):
Well.
Speaker 2 (14:38):
In today's Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 1 (14:40):
We're taking a look at the rapidly growing world of
youth club sports. From soccer fields to basketball courts, millions
of kids are spending hours, training, competing, and chasing their
athletic dreams. To share insights from a first of its
kind national study, the Club Sports Index, we now welcome
Brian Fleming, Senior vice president and general manager.
Speaker 2 (14:58):
Of Club Direct for b IN Sports.
Speaker 6 (15:00):
Brian, good morning to you, warning Scott, thanks for having me.
Speaker 2 (15:03):
Thank you and Brian. Okay, first question out of the mat.
Speaker 1 (15:05):
How big are youth club sports today and how has
participation changed in recent years?
Speaker 6 (15:11):
Well, the landscape of youth sports overall in the US,
it's just absolutely exploded recently. There's over sixty million youth
athletes now, roughly half of those participate in club or
travel sports, and that number has been on the rise
over the last decade. The change is really just that
club sports is so much more than competition nowadays. Competition
is certainly there, but it's also about belonging, development and
(15:33):
community because families are investing more time, they're investing more energy,
more resources than ever before into helping their kids grow
through sport.
Speaker 1 (15:41):
All right on, Brian Fleming, Senior vice president and general
manager of Club Direct from BSN Sports talking to us
about the Club Sports Index and we're talking about the
impact that club sports are having on youth sports in
twenty twenty five. And Brian, what inspired bs IN Sports
to conduct the Club Sports Index study?
Speaker 6 (15:59):
Yeah, we launched it just better understand how families and
clubs are experiencing club sports today, from their motivations and
their pressures, to costs and mental health. At the sn
Sports Club Direct, we serve over three thousand clubs across
the country, So this research helps us. It helps us
to innovate around what we truly need to develop for
these customers and it's everything from uniforms and equipment to
(16:22):
helping to establish some team identity. So this helps us
put us ourselves in a position to support these clubs
more effectively.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
And what are some of the key takeaways from say, athletes,
parents and club owners that you found in the study.
Speaker 6 (16:34):
Yeah, some of the serious themes from the data is
the professionalization of youth sports. Seventy two percent of responding
said club club sports feel more competitive than they do
recreational and one in six parents believe that they're raising
the next pro athlete. But the intensity of professionalization comes
with some really powerful positives. Parents told us that their
(16:55):
kids are building confidence, athletes said that they have stronger
mental health and discipline, and the coaches and club owners
they're seeing real games just in general teamwork and character
of the athletes. Now, all that said, balance, balance, is
still really critical. Athletes and parents said burnout happens at
least twice a year, often tied to pressure, which is
(17:17):
probably not surprising for most people to hear that, or
over scheduling, whether it's you know, a lot of practices
or tournaments on the weekends. And as a club sports
parents myself, Scott, I have two kids, a ten and eight.
They both play club sports. I see this firsthand. Our
weeknds are packed with tournament's travel, team commissments. I mean,
it's tough to be up for it every weekend. But
(17:37):
the research told us that despite that burnout, nine to
ten parents said that they see their investment as something
truly meaningful for their child's future, and so they.
Speaker 10 (17:47):
Stick with it.
Speaker 1 (17:48):
We're talking with Brian Fleming, senior vice president and general
manager of Club Direct from BSN Sports. They're out with
the Club Sports Index taking a look at the impact
on club sports and youth. And when you're looking, you
say it takes up a lot of time. Did you study, Brian,
say how much time? Or is this just we're like
you mentioned, we're just going jam packed all weekend long?
Speaker 6 (18:07):
You know it really?
Speaker 8 (18:08):
Is it?
Speaker 6 (18:08):
More generally? I mean it's the practices throughout the week,
and then it's the dedication every weekend. And you know,
obviously there's seasonality to it, right, I mean, not everyone's
playing year round. There are some, but not everyone's playing
year round. It's really just that week to week commitment
in season.
Speaker 1 (18:22):
And how much are you noticing, Brian, more differences in
the most popular sports by say region, Like, for example,
we're here in the Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio region. Are there
differences in sports between maybe our region and say East
Coast or West Coast.
Speaker 6 (18:36):
I'm sure there is. Our data it was more it
was more nationally focused, even though that we did survey folks,
you know, throughout each region, but the regional information didn't
really skew across the country. But to your point, I mean,
I think if you look at certain sports that are
more regionally focused, I mean, soccer is definitely very popular
in the Midwest and in the South, lacrosse in the Northeast,
(18:57):
things like that. If we were to do another project
to look more regionally by sport, I do think that
we see some differences to your point.
Speaker 1 (19:04):
Right on again, spending a few good minutes here with
Brian Fleming, he is senior vice president and general manager
of Club Direct for BSN Sports. They are out with
their Club Sports Index. We're discussing the impact the club
sports are having on athletes, families, everyone pretty much in general.
And ran before we let you go, what are some
of the costs or challenges parents should consider before committing
(19:26):
to club or travel teams.
Speaker 6 (19:27):
Oh, that's a great question. There's a few. I'd say
I definitely start with fit. Make sure the club's culture
and philosophy matches your child's goals. Is it focused on
player development? Is the club known for intense competition and
travel or is the club more about just an overall
experience and having fun? And then I mentioned burnout earlier,
so I would say balance. It's really easy to get
(19:49):
caught up in the travel and tournaments every single weekend,
but rest and other fun activities are critical to keeping
these kids motivated and excited to play. And then I'd
say last, family alignment, just be realistic about the time
and the financial commitment. Our research found that on average,
family spend about three hundred to five hundred dollars a
(20:10):
year on jerseys and new gear. And that's just you know,
on jerseys, New Year that doesn't include travel and hotels
and registration fees. But the good news is, guy, I mean,
we love this As a uniform and apparel partner. Sixty
four percent of the parents say it's worth the investment
because those uniforms in that gear represent pride and progress
for their athletes.
Speaker 1 (20:29):
Right on, and of course we're talking club sports. Just
a couple quick questions for you, Brian, before you let
you go, looking at both the club side and the
parents side. First, the club side, how can clubs, if
they can at all, better support their next generation of athletes.
Speaker 6 (20:42):
Well, I think there's a lot of programming now that
you know. I started at the beginning to say that
club sports is more about the belonging, development and community.
A lot of companies that support club sports, like BSN,
we do things to focus on female participation, empowering the
female athlete to continue to play sport. There's things from
mental health perspectives that you know, there's a certain curriculum
(21:04):
for club owners to establish with their athletes and then
use the parents to also support that. There's lots of
other resources nowadays that I think just weren't available years ago.
Speaker 1 (21:13):
And last question for you again, Brian, Fleming, senior vice
president and general manager of Club Direct for BSN Sports
and talking about their Club Sports Index.
Speaker 2 (21:22):
Brian, are there trends.
Speaker 1 (21:23):
Or changes in youth sports that any parent listening right
now or someone in the community should be aware of.
Speaker 6 (21:28):
I think the biggest trend is just that, you know,
I mentioned earlier, the professionalization. It's definitely become more intense.
And you know, when when the survey tells us that
things are more competitive and recreational, I think that could
turn some people off, But I think it's important to
come back to just what a lot of these kids
can experience beyond that competition and beyond that sport, and
(21:48):
part of that is just, you know, being able to,
you know, see how the sport builds confidence and resilience
and friendships. You know, we as a company, we helped
to shape how these clubs aureate and eliminate the headaches
around uniforms and apparel because I see with my own
kids when they put on that uniform for game day,
it represents more than a team. It's representing pride and belonging,
(22:10):
and we just want to help every club create that
same sense of purpose and connection for its athletes.
Speaker 1 (22:15):
Brian Fleming, Senior vice president and general manager of Club
Direct for BSN Sports out with their Club Sports Index. Brian,
workin families go up. They're listening now and they want
to read more on your club sports Index.
Speaker 6 (22:26):
Yeah, Scott. You can learn more about the Club Sports
Index and explore how club Direct supports thousands of clubs
across the country at bsnsports dot com.
Speaker 2 (22:34):
Brian, you've been a great guest. Thank you, buddy. You've
given us a lot of insight.
Speaker 1 (22:37):
Club sports are here to stay, There's no doubt about it,
and I'm certainly looking forward to diving into this headfirst
and reading more.
Speaker 2 (22:44):
Brian, thank you so much for your time today.
Speaker 6 (22:46):
Thank you, Scott, appreciate it well.
Speaker 16 (22:47):
Brian.
Speaker 1 (22:48):
Certainly you've given us an inside look at club youth sports,
from participation trends to the time and investment families are making.
Speaker 2 (22:55):
What this means to a next generation of athletes.
Speaker 1 (22:57):
If you want to explore the Club Sports Index get
more information, head to bsnsports dot com or Slash Programs
or Slash Club Select or just go to bsnsports dot
com and you'll take you right to it. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
This is Kentucky Focus. We're back to wrap things up
after this.
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so saying two to forward phrases and engaging in pretend
to play, and what about social development ah being enthusiastic
about the company of other children.
Speaker 2 (25:35):
Thank you.
Speaker 20 (25:36):
It's time to change how we view a child's growth.
It's not just physical. There are milestones your child should
reach in how he plays, learns, speaks, and acts. A
delay in any of these areas could be a sign
of a developmental problem, even autism. The good news is
the earlier it's recognized, the more you can do to
help your child reach his full potential. Talk with a doctor.
(25:57):
Visit CDC dot gov, slash act early or call one
eight hundred CDC info a message from the US Department
of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Speaker 7 (26:06):
Learn the signs act early.
Speaker 5 (26:08):
In Kentucky call five oh two eight five two, seven,
seven nine nine, or visit Kyautism dot org.
Speaker 2 (26:20):
And then I'll do it.
Speaker 1 (26:20):
For this week's show, a big thank you to doctor
Angela Fitch for sharing her expertise on obesity treatments and
the dangers of unapproved medications, and Brian Fleming for giving
us a closer look at the evolving world of youth
club sports. And of course thank you to our listeners
all around the Commonwealth for tuning us in each week
and staying informed. We hope you found the show as
always helpful in thought provoking.
Speaker 2 (26:43):
We'll do it all again next week, that's for sure.
Speaker 10 (26:45):
I know.
Speaker 1 (26:45):
I speak for all of us at the Kentucky News
Network and of course Kentucky Focus. When I tell you
to stay safe, stay warm, and most of all, stay well,
join us next week on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 2 (26:56):
I'm Scott Fitzger.
Speaker 3 (26:57):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and it's citizens. We
cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 8 (27:15):
When your car is making a strange noise, you can't
just pretend it's not happening.
Speaker 10 (27:21):
Probably nothing.
Speaker 8 (27:23):
It's like your mental health. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's
important to do something about it. It can be as
simple as talking to someone or just taking a deep,
calming breath. The Husband Mental Health Institute in the ad
Council have resources that love youormind today dot org because
once you start to address the problem, you could go
so much further.
Speaker 21 (27:42):
The mission of Kentucky Stype Place is a safeguard and
enforce the laws across the Commonwealth. One of our priorities
is making sure families across our New Kentucky home are
safe not only site, but also they feel safe when
we have someone that come in, it's a crime, and
we want to ensure that those pay their debt to society,
(28:04):
and they do. But once they finish that, and that's
when we want to incorporate these re entry programs for
those to be able to go back in their communities.
Speaker 17 (28:14):
And what that does and that they become contributed members
is socided they have an income they can provide for
their family and by that then they're not committing further offenses,
which makes Kentucky a safer place. And by Kentucky being
a safer place, that's also safer for law enforcement across
their commonwealth. Now we will collaborate with other public agencies
and other law enforcement entities to ensure that people can
(28:38):
have a better life for themselves and their family.
Speaker 14 (28:42):
Statistics show that roughly twenty veterans die by suicide every
day in the United States, and each day over one
thousand dogs are euthanized in shelters across the country. Canines
for Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing highly trended
service dogs the veterans with PTSD and other invisible wounds
(29:04):
of war.
Speaker 22 (29:05):
Hannah and I says, we've been together, we have done
so much, there's nothing I won't do now as long
as hand is by my side. Without Hannah, I'd probably
still be stuck in the living room with the curtains drawn,
with my back to the wall, with probably gone on
my lip.
Speaker 14 (29:20):
The majority of service dogs from Canines are rescues, and
with each pairing, two lives are changed. Forever we rescue
the dog, the dog rescues the warrior. To learn more
about how Canines for Warriors are saving lives at both
ends of the leash, please visit CANINESFO warriors dot org.
That's caninesfo Warriors dot org.
And welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. We've got
a great show lined up for you. First, we'll be
talking about a growing health concern affecting millions across the Commonwealth,
limited insurance coverage for FDA approved obesity medications and the
dangers of unsafe knockoffs.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
And later on we'll switch gears and talk to you
about youth sports. Well, the club sports is booming around
our state.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
How much do we really know about participation costs and
the pressure's family face.
Speaker 2 (00:29):
We'll talk to someone who's in the know.
Speaker 1 (00:31):
I'm Scott Fitzgerald and you're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (00:34):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens.
We cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 1 (00:54):
HI.
Speaker 4 (00:54):
I'm Vanessa Williams, and I want to share with you
the role that diabetes has had in my family. I
lost my grandmother at the early age of sixty four
due to complications with diabetes. She was warm, generous, and
a constant encouragement for me to follow my heart. Did
you know that African Americans experience chronic kidney disease at
(01:16):
a rate that's twenty five percent higher than White Americans,
and we're almost four times more likely to develop kidney failure.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are leading causes of kidney disease,
which can result in kidney failure, needing dialysis, or a
kidney transplant. The good news is that you have the
power to check out how well your kidneys are doing
(01:38):
and learn ways to prevent them from failing. So go
to your doctor and get yourself checked out. Visit link
blovetv dot org to learn more, get the facts, get checked,
and get healthy.
Speaker 5 (01:53):
In Iraq, our truck hit a roadside bomb. I had
about sixteen surgeries on my hand so that I could
reach gain function. And when I came home, I needed
a new proof due to a storm, and my electrical
was deemed unsafe and I was about to lose homeowners'
insurance as well. I didn't really know where to go
(02:15):
in order to get help, and so I applied for
Operation Homefront Critical Financial Assistance program. They've really been a blessing.
Operation home Front is the safety net a lot of
veterans they fall through the cracks sometimes and Operation home
Front they catch us. It's been a blessing to us.
It's a blessing to other veteran families, and it's good
(02:35):
to know that when we come home there are people
who are there that care about us and want to
see us too well, and want to see us succeed.
And we feel it and we appreciate that. I would say,
you guys are angels behind closed doors.
Speaker 6 (02:50):
Visit Operation Homefront dot org to learn more.
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Local radio brings people together like never before.
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It's a beautiful hometown weekend out there.
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We've got your local stations keep you in for him
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This message furnished by the National Association of Broadcasters.
Speaker 2 (03:24):
Well on today's Kentucky Folcus.
Speaker 1 (03:26):
We're tackling a growing health concern that's hitting Americans across
the country limited access to safe, effective treatments, Many patients
are turning to unsafe, unapproved medications known as compounded GLP
ones because insurance won't cover FDA approved options. Here to
explain the risks and what needs to change is doctor
Angela Fitch, Founder in chief medical officer, known well and
(03:47):
a leading expert in obesity medicine. Doctor Fitch, good morning
to you, Thanks.
Speaker 9 (03:51):
For joining us, Thank you for having me ktt Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:53):
Can you explain now what GLP one medications are and
why they become so important in treating obesity.
Speaker 9 (04:00):
Well, Obesity is really a chronic, treatable disease, and we
have had GLP one medications for over twenty years, but
they've become you know, via science, in the advancement of
science and research, they have become much more effective in
terms of managing our weight. Weight management is not a
problem with willpower. It is really an issue, a biological
(04:21):
issue that's complicated that oftentimes needs medication in addition to
lifestyle factors in order to be successful long term with
keeping the weight off.
Speaker 1 (04:30):
Right on talking with doctor Angela Fitch, founder of for
OBC Clinic, known well, leading expert in obesity medicine, and
we're talking about a growing health concern surrounding weight loss
and doctor Fitch, one of the biggest risks patients face
when using these unapproved compounded GLP one drugs, Well.
Speaker 9 (04:47):
Scott, you know, the issue is, you know, we see
a lot of patients at my clinic, which is called
known well at our clinic, you know, one of the
things that we see as patients coming in on some
of these compounded versions and frankly, you know, we don't know,
they don't know, we don't know what's in them, right,
is the problem we have. And they might be working
for some patients, but for many patients. You know, there's
(05:08):
data to show now that people who are taking a
compounded version versus an FDA version are twice as likely
to be hospitalized for various reasons, whether that's because of
some sort of impurity or something in the medication that
they're having a side effect from, or also just the
fact that dosing it can be difficult depending on the
fact that it's not always the same every time they
(05:29):
get it, and so the real issue is just it
not being the same as the FDA for approved versions.
Speaker 1 (05:35):
Doctor Angela Fitch is with us she's founder in chief
medical officer, known well leading expert, and she's a leading
expert in obcity medicine. And we're talking to her about
GLP ones and some of the dangers and risks and
insurance concerns, etc. And doctor Fitch are, how does limited
insurance coverage impact patients access to safe FDA approved treatments.
Speaker 9 (05:57):
Well, for decades now, obesity has not been treated as
other chronic diseases. So other chronic diseases like high blood
pressure or diabetes or heart disease, you know, you expect
to go into the doctor and be able to get
treatment for those conditions you know, covered by your insurance,
but obesity, because Medicare has never covered obesity, then commercial
(06:18):
insurance also doesn't cover obesity. It's been carved out from
our insurance system for decades. And that's really what's starting
to change overall is that as of last week, it
was announced that Medicare is now able to cover these
medications for certain Medicare beneficiaries starting as early as April
of next year, and then that'll continue to advance over
the next couple of years through innovations through CMS and others.
(06:43):
So we're hopeful that more patients will get access to
FDA approved treatment options over the course of the next
year or two.
Speaker 1 (06:50):
Very interesting doctor Angela Fitch again, founder and chief medical
officer at known Well and a leading expert in obesity medicine,
talking to us about GLP ones. So, Fish, why do
you think coverage for OBCD medication lags behind coverage for say,
diabetes or heart disease.
Speaker 9 (07:05):
Well, it was always very stigmatized. The idea was that
if you just ate less an exercise more, you could
control your weight. And we know now that that's not
the case in and of itself. Weight loss itself is
not a normal process for the human body. It is
abnormal to lose weight. So when you're trying to lose weight,
even if you have weight to lose, it becomes very
difficult to keep it off long term. And that's where
(07:27):
adding a medication to your lifestyle interventions that you're doing,
you know it can be extremely beneficial to patients, and
that's where we're hoping to get more and more access
to coverage of FDA approved versions of these medications so
patients can seek a health improvement. See the health improvements
as well, not just the weight loss.
Speaker 1 (07:47):
And doctor Fitch, if you could have the ear of policymakers, say,
insurance providers, and regulators to ensure patients have access to
safe treatments, what would you tell.
Speaker 9 (07:56):
Them, Well, I firmly believe that you know, large scale
compounding needs to star. Compounding was created to serve shortage times.
We do not have a shortage any longer of these medications,
and it was created to personalize one on one for
patients that need something personalized for them. In particular, the
mass compound that we have compounding that we see here
(08:18):
today under the guise of personalization is really just taking
advantage of a lot of Americans, and it's the largest uncontrolled, unconsented,
really human experiment of our time when patients don't even
realize oftentimes that they're not getting the FDA approved versions
of these medications.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
And final question for you, doctor Fitch, what can patients
do right now to make sure they're getting safe, effective
treatment for obesity.
Speaker 9 (08:44):
Well, the one thing I do encourage is that they
talk to their doctor right talk to your clinician that's
caring for you in the long run, because this is
a chronic condition and treating obesity across your lifetime. Again,
doing it for the health of it, not the weight
of it, not for aner on the scale, but achieving
health outcomes should really be our goal, and getting that
(09:05):
comprehensive care that every American deserves should be the goal
of all of us. To get coverage more broadly across
the country by both commercial payers, Medicare.
Speaker 2 (09:16):
And Medicaid agree one hundred percent.
Speaker 1 (09:18):
Doctor Angela Fitch, founder and chief medical officer at known
Well and a leading expert in obesity medicine talking to
us today of course about the popular GLP one drugs
and doctor Fitch. Finally, where can people find trustworthy resources
or guidance from your folks or where can they go
if they're listening to this and want to learn more?
Speaker 9 (09:35):
Yes, I often recommend the Obesity Action Coalition, which is
the patient advocacy arm for obesity. It's Obesityaction dot org.
You can also, of course go to known Well. We
see patients at fifty state virtually across the country, as
well as in person in six states, so look seek
out a clinician on the Obesit Action website. You can
(09:57):
also find clinicians in your local area that specialize in
b Seek here and seek out someone who is going
to take care of you for the long run, not
something shady that you're getting an ad for on the internet.
Speaker 2 (10:07):
Doctor fitz thank you so much.
Speaker 1 (10:09):
You've certainly given us a lot to think about, of course,
the risks of patient's face with unapproved medications and the
importance of insurance coverage for OBCD treatments. Coming up next,
we're shifting gears from health to the playing field. Welcome
in somebody who's in the note to talk about what's
driving today's youth club sports industry here in the Commonwealth
and what parents and athletes need to know. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
(10:31):
You are listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 10 (10:38):
Some journeys start small with small pause and big purpose.
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Speaker.
Speaker 10 (10:46):
Every great partnership begins with the first step. Let's go
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but the reward lasts a lifetime. You don't just raise
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Oh learn more at dogsink dot org.
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Only one in five people with disabilities, including those with autism,
are employed, despite many having the skill set and desire
to work.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
Maybe it's because employers don't know what kind of jobs
they can do.
Speaker 13 (11:46):
Okay, try me.
Speaker 14 (11:47):
What about a programmer.
Speaker 13 (11:49):
That is a job for someone with autism? What about
a teacher that is a job for someone with autism?
Speaker 15 (11:55):
Oh?
Speaker 2 (11:56):
How about a healthcare worker?
Speaker 16 (11:58):
Yes?
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Those are all jobs someone with autism. The truth is
qualified people with autism can do a lot of different jobs,
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Ooh what about a ranch hand.
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Yeah, sure, that's a job for someone with autism too.
To learn more, go to Autism Speaks dot org, slash
win that's Autism Speaks dot org, slash.
Speaker 16 (12:35):
Win deck Trends. New data from Adobe Analytics finds online
shopping is ramping up. According to Lead insights analyst Vivek Pandea,
more people are using artificial intelligence to help them with
the buying process.
Speaker 11 (12:48):
Where consumers are more likely to purchase coming off of
an AI platform than coming from a different source.
Speaker 16 (12:53):
He says traffic from AI platforms like CHATGPT and Perplexity,
two online retail sites around twelve hundred percent last year.
Speaker 11 (13:02):
They're really kind of getting ideas on what they can
be buying for someone, and then they're being served with
where they can purchase those products and those links, and
that's the link traffic scaling that we're seeing at play
right now.
Speaker 16 (13:14):
Adobe Analytics says consumer spent eighty eight point seven billion
dollars online in October, up eight point two percent from
last year.
Speaker 11 (13:22):
We're really going to be watching closely to see how
that momentum shift's going towards Thanksgiving and that cyber week.
Speaker 16 (13:30):
With tech trends. I'm Mike Debaski and we're.
Speaker 6 (13:33):
Live here outside the Perez family home, just waiting for
the and there they go, almost on time.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
This morning.
Speaker 1 (13:40):
Mom is coming out the front door strong with a
double arm kid carry.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Looks like dad has the bags. Daughter is bringing up
the rear.
Speaker 1 (13:47):
Oh but the diaper bag wasn't closed.
Speaker 2 (13:50):
Diapers and toys are everywhere.
Speaker 1 (13:53):
Ooh but Mom has just nailed the perfect car seat
buckle for the toddler, and now the eldest, who looks
to be about nine or ten, has secured herself.
Speaker 2 (14:03):
In the booster seat. Dad zips the bag closed and
they're off.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Ah, what looks like Mom doesn't realize her coffee cup
is still on.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
The roof of the car, and there it goes. Oh,
that's a shame that mug was a fam favorite.
Speaker 14 (14:17):
Don't sweat the small stuff, just nail the big stuff,
like making sure your kids are buckle correctly in the
right seat for their agents' eyes.
Speaker 7 (14:23):
Learn more at NHTSA dot gov slash the Right Seat.
Speaker 13 (14:26):
Visits NHDSA dot gov slash the Right Seat.
Speaker 14 (14:30):
Brought to you by NITZA and the ad Council.
Speaker 1 (14:35):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
Speaker 17 (14:38):
Well.
Speaker 2 (14:38):
In today's Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 1 (14:40):
We're taking a look at the rapidly growing world of
youth club sports. From soccer fields to basketball courts, millions
of kids are spending hours, training, competing, and chasing their
athletic dreams. To share insights from a first of its
kind national study, the Club Sports Index, we now welcome
Brian Fleming, Senior vice president and general manager.
Speaker 2 (14:58):
Of Club Direct for b IN Sports.
Speaker 6 (15:00):
Brian, good morning to you, warning Scott, thanks for having me.
Speaker 2 (15:03):
Thank you and Brian. Okay, first question out of the mat.
Speaker 1 (15:05):
How big are youth club sports today and how has
participation changed in recent years?
Speaker 6 (15:11):
Well, the landscape of youth sports overall in the US,
it's just absolutely exploded recently. There's over sixty million youth
athletes now, roughly half of those participate in club or
travel sports, and that number has been on the rise
over the last decade. The change is really just that
club sports is so much more than competition nowadays. Competition
is certainly there, but it's also about belonging, development and
(15:33):
community because families are investing more time, they're investing more energy,
more resources than ever before into helping their kids grow
through sport.
Speaker 1 (15:41):
All right on, Brian Fleming, Senior vice president and general
manager of Club Direct from BSN Sports talking to us
about the Club Sports Index and we're talking about the
impact that club sports are having on youth sports in
twenty twenty five. And Brian, what inspired bs IN Sports
to conduct the Club Sports Index study?
Speaker 6 (15:59):
Yeah, we launched it just better understand how families and
clubs are experiencing club sports today, from their motivations and
their pressures, to costs and mental health. At the sn
Sports Club Direct, we serve over three thousand clubs across
the country, So this research helps us. It helps us
to innovate around what we truly need to develop for
these customers and it's everything from uniforms and equipment to
(16:22):
helping to establish some team identity. So this helps us
put us ourselves in a position to support these clubs
more effectively.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
And what are some of the key takeaways from say, athletes,
parents and club owners that you found in the study.
Speaker 6 (16:34):
Yeah, some of the serious themes from the data is
the professionalization of youth sports. Seventy two percent of responding
said club club sports feel more competitive than they do
recreational and one in six parents believe that they're raising
the next pro athlete. But the intensity of professionalization comes
with some really powerful positives. Parents told us that their
(16:55):
kids are building confidence, athletes said that they have stronger
mental health and discipline, and the coaches and club owners
they're seeing real games just in general teamwork and character
of the athletes. Now, all that said, balance, balance, is
still really critical. Athletes and parents said burnout happens at
least twice a year, often tied to pressure, which is
(17:17):
probably not surprising for most people to hear that, or
over scheduling, whether it's you know, a lot of practices
or tournaments on the weekends. And as a club sports
parents myself, Scott, I have two kids, a ten and eight.
They both play club sports. I see this firsthand. Our
weeknds are packed with tournament's travel, team commissments. I mean,
it's tough to be up for it every weekend. But
(17:37):
the research told us that despite that burnout, nine to
ten parents said that they see their investment as something
truly meaningful for their child's future, and so they.
Speaker 10 (17:47):
Stick with it.
Speaker 1 (17:48):
We're talking with Brian Fleming, senior vice president and general
manager of Club Direct from BSN Sports. They're out with
the Club Sports Index taking a look at the impact
on club sports and youth. And when you're looking, you
say it takes up a lot of time. Did you study, Brian,
say how much time? Or is this just we're like
you mentioned, we're just going jam packed all weekend long?
Speaker 6 (18:07):
You know it really?
Speaker 8 (18:08):
Is it?
Speaker 6 (18:08):
More generally? I mean it's the practices throughout the week,
and then it's the dedication every weekend. And you know,
obviously there's seasonality to it, right, I mean, not everyone's
playing year round. There are some, but not everyone's playing
year round. It's really just that week to week commitment
in season.
Speaker 1 (18:22):
And how much are you noticing, Brian, more differences in
the most popular sports by say region, Like, for example,
we're here in the Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio region. Are there
differences in sports between maybe our region and say East
Coast or West Coast.
Speaker 6 (18:36):
I'm sure there is. Our data it was more it
was more nationally focused, even though that we did survey folks,
you know, throughout each region, but the regional information didn't
really skew across the country. But to your point, I mean,
I think if you look at certain sports that are
more regionally focused, I mean, soccer is definitely very popular
in the Midwest and in the South, lacrosse in the Northeast,
(18:57):
things like that. If we were to do another project
to look more regionally by sport, I do think that
we see some differences to your point.
Speaker 1 (19:04):
Right on again, spending a few good minutes here with
Brian Fleming, he is senior vice president and general manager
of Club Direct for BSN Sports. They are out with
their Club Sports Index. We're discussing the impact the club
sports are having on athletes, families, everyone pretty much in general.
And ran before we let you go, what are some
of the costs or challenges parents should consider before committing
(19:26):
to club or travel teams.
Speaker 6 (19:27):
Oh, that's a great question. There's a few. I'd say
I definitely start with fit. Make sure the club's culture
and philosophy matches your child's goals. Is it focused on
player development? Is the club known for intense competition and
travel or is the club more about just an overall
experience and having fun? And then I mentioned burnout earlier,
so I would say balance. It's really easy to get
(19:49):
caught up in the travel and tournaments every single weekend,
but rest and other fun activities are critical to keeping
these kids motivated and excited to play. And then I'd
say last, family alignment, just be realistic about the time
and the financial commitment. Our research found that on average,
family spend about three hundred to five hundred dollars a
(20:10):
year on jerseys and new gear. And that's just you know,
on jerseys, New Year that doesn't include travel and hotels
and registration fees. But the good news is, guy, I mean,
we love this As a uniform and apparel partner. Sixty
four percent of the parents say it's worth the investment
because those uniforms in that gear represent pride and progress
for their athletes.
Speaker 1 (20:29):
Right on, and of course we're talking club sports. Just
a couple quick questions for you, Brian, before you let
you go, looking at both the club side and the
parents side. First, the club side, how can clubs, if
they can at all, better support their next generation of athletes.
Speaker 6 (20:42):
Well, I think there's a lot of programming now that
you know. I started at the beginning to say that
club sports is more about the belonging, development and community.
A lot of companies that support club sports, like BSN,
we do things to focus on female participation, empowering the
female athlete to continue to play sport. There's things from
mental health perspectives that you know, there's a certain curriculum
(21:04):
for club owners to establish with their athletes and then
use the parents to also support that. There's lots of
other resources nowadays that I think just weren't available years ago.
Speaker 1 (21:13):
And last question for you again, Brian, Fleming, senior vice
president and general manager of Club Direct for BSN Sports
and talking about their Club Sports Index.
Speaker 2 (21:22):
Brian, are there trends.
Speaker 1 (21:23):
Or changes in youth sports that any parent listening right
now or someone in the community should be aware of.
Speaker 6 (21:28):
I think the biggest trend is just that, you know,
I mentioned earlier, the professionalization. It's definitely become more intense.
And you know, when when the survey tells us that
things are more competitive and recreational, I think that could
turn some people off, But I think it's important to
come back to just what a lot of these kids
can experience beyond that competition and beyond that sport, and
(21:48):
part of that is just, you know, being able to,
you know, see how the sport builds confidence and resilience
and friendships. You know, we as a company, we helped
to shape how these clubs aureate and eliminate the headaches
around uniforms and apparel because I see with my own
kids when they put on that uniform for game day,
it represents more than a team. It's representing pride and belonging,
(22:10):
and we just want to help every club create that
same sense of purpose and connection for its athletes.
Speaker 1 (22:15):
Brian Fleming, Senior vice president and general manager of Club
Direct for BSN Sports out with their Club Sports Index. Brian,
workin families go up. They're listening now and they want
to read more on your club sports Index.
Speaker 6 (22:26):
Yeah, Scott. You can learn more about the Club Sports
Index and explore how club Direct supports thousands of clubs
across the country at bsnsports dot com.
Speaker 2 (22:34):
Brian, you've been a great guest. Thank you, buddy. You've
given us a lot of insight.
Speaker 1 (22:37):
Club sports are here to stay, There's no doubt about it,
and I'm certainly looking forward to diving into this headfirst
and reading more.
Speaker 2 (22:44):
Brian, thank you so much for your time today.
Speaker 6 (22:46):
Thank you, Scott, appreciate it well.
Speaker 16 (22:47):
Brian.
Speaker 1 (22:48):
Certainly you've given us an inside look at club youth sports,
from participation trends to the time and investment families are making.
Speaker 2 (22:55):
What this means to a next generation of athletes.
Speaker 1 (22:57):
If you want to explore the Club Sports Index get
more information, head to bsnsports dot com or Slash Programs
or Slash Club Select or just go to bsnsports dot
com and you'll take you right to it. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
This is Kentucky Focus. We're back to wrap things up
after this.
Speaker 18 (23:17):
You said you'd never buy your kid candy from the
checkout aisle, or forget extra diapers, and never give into
a meltdown. You'd never lick your thumb to clean their face,
never let them have too much green time, and never
bribe them for just one more bite. You say you'd
(23:42):
never let them out in public without their hair brush,
never ever become a minivan mom, and you'd never give
them your phone for a quiet dinner.
Speaker 7 (23:53):
Falling boss work phone.
Speaker 18 (23:56):
So when you say you'd never leave your child in
a hot car, no, it can happen. Cars get hot fast,
and kids can be at risk in temperatures as low
as sixty degrees fahrenheit. Never happens before you leave the car.
Speaker 12 (24:12):
Always stop.
Speaker 6 (24:13):
Look luck.
Speaker 18 (24:15):
Brought to you by NITSA and the ad Council.
Speaker 12 (24:17):
We asked parents who adopted teens to share their journey.
Speaker 15 (24:21):
Nathan has taught me to embrace the moment age wise.
I mean, I'm just I'm in my late sixties, I'm
old of his grandfather. Will it be embarrassed he acknowledge
me as his dad? I think the most important thing
we can do is let them know that they're safe,
that they're valued and cared for and loved, and that
they're important.
Speaker 7 (24:42):
I knew I wanted to be adopted by him because
of how he taught me.
Speaker 6 (24:47):
To be the person who I am today.
Speaker 1 (24:49):
And it's coming from a dad that didn't expect to
become adapt and I feel very proud to be.
Speaker 15 (24:54):
A sign that was what he needed and he was
what I needed. Every day is full of new opportunities.
That's what it's been about, realizing the simple things that
it takes to make such a huge difference in these
kids' lives.
Speaker 12 (25:08):
Learn about adopting a team from foster care at adopt
youth Kids dot org. Brought to you by Adopt Youth Kids,
the US Department of Health and Human Services, and the
ad Council.
Speaker 19 (25:17):
We're discussing child development with some experts. Tell me what's
the normal development of say a two year old. It's
so saying two to forward phrases and engaging in pretend
to play, and what about social development ah being enthusiastic
about the company of other children.
Speaker 2 (25:35):
Thank you.
Speaker 20 (25:36):
It's time to change how we view a child's growth.
It's not just physical. There are milestones your child should
reach in how he plays, learns, speaks, and acts. A
delay in any of these areas could be a sign
of a developmental problem, even autism. The good news is
the earlier it's recognized, the more you can do to
help your child reach his full potential. Talk with a doctor.
(25:57):
Visit CDC dot gov, slash act early or call one
eight hundred CDC info a message from the US Department
of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Speaker 7 (26:06):
Learn the signs act early.
Speaker 5 (26:08):
In Kentucky call five oh two eight five two, seven,
seven nine nine, or visit Kyautism dot org.
Speaker 2 (26:20):
And then I'll do it.
Speaker 1 (26:20):
For this week's show, a big thank you to doctor
Angela Fitch for sharing her expertise on obesity treatments and
the dangers of unapproved medications, and Brian Fleming for giving
us a closer look at the evolving world of youth
club sports. And of course thank you to our listeners
all around the Commonwealth for tuning us in each week
and staying informed. We hope you found the show as
always helpful in thought provoking.
Speaker 2 (26:43):
We'll do it all again next week, that's for sure.
Speaker 10 (26:45):
I know.
Speaker 1 (26:45):
I speak for all of us at the Kentucky News
Network and of course Kentucky Focus. When I tell you
to stay safe, stay warm, and most of all, stay well,
join us next week on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 2 (26:56):
I'm Scott Fitzger.
Speaker 3 (26:57):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and it's citizens. We
cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 8 (27:15):
When your car is making a strange noise, you can't
just pretend it's not happening.
Speaker 10 (27:21):
Probably nothing.
Speaker 8 (27:23):
It's like your mental health. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's
important to do something about it. It can be as
simple as talking to someone or just taking a deep,
calming breath. The Husband Mental Health Institute in the ad
Council have resources that love youormind today dot org because
once you start to address the problem, you could go
so much further.
Speaker 21 (27:42):
The mission of Kentucky Stype Place is a safeguard and
enforce the laws across the Commonwealth. One of our priorities
is making sure families across our New Kentucky home are
safe not only site, but also they feel safe when
we have someone that come in, it's a crime, and
we want to ensure that those pay their debt to society,
(28:04):
and they do. But once they finish that, and that's
when we want to incorporate these re entry programs for
those to be able to go back in their communities.
Speaker 17 (28:14):
And what that does and that they become contributed members
is socided they have an income they can provide for
their family and by that then they're not committing further offenses,
which makes Kentucky a safer place. And by Kentucky being
a safer place, that's also safer for law enforcement across
their commonwealth. Now we will collaborate with other public agencies
and other law enforcement entities to ensure that people can
(28:38):
have a better life for themselves and their family.
Speaker 14 (28:42):
Statistics show that roughly twenty veterans die by suicide every
day in the United States, and each day over one
thousand dogs are euthanized in shelters across the country. Canines
for Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing highly trended
service dogs the veterans with PTSD and other invisible wounds
(29:04):
of war.
Speaker 22 (29:05):
Hannah and I says, we've been together, we have done
so much, there's nothing I won't do now as long
as hand is by my side. Without Hannah, I'd probably
still be stuck in the living room with the curtains drawn,
with my back to the wall, with probably gone on
my lip.
Speaker 14 (29:20):
The majority of service dogs from Canines are rescues, and
with each pairing, two lives are changed. Forever we rescue
the dog, the dog rescues the warrior. To learn more
about how Canines for Warriors are saving lives at both
ends of the leash, please visit CANINESFO warriors dot org.
That's caninesfo Warriors dot org.
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