UMMC health experts entertain, inform daily on Southern Remedy

If there's a remedy for what ails you, Dr. Rick deShazo is ready with a dose of information every Wednesday, starting with a clear, approachable explanation of your health concern.

Joining him throughout the week are Dr. Debbie Minor on Mondays, Dr. Susan Buttross on Tuesdays, Dr. Jimmy Stewart on Thursdays and Dr. Michelle Owens on Fridays.

Together, the physicians host "Southern Remedy," Mississippi Public Broadcasting's flagship wellness program, airing weekdays from 11 a.m. to noon on MPB Think Radio.

"We focus on health literacy and individual needs," said deShazo, the program's original host since 2004. "We may have a general topic, but we let the audience drive the conversation. We want to meet their needs, not ours."

That approach has resonated with listeners across Mississippi and beyond, who call in with questions ranging from routine concerns to complex medical issues.

Each host brings a unique focus. Minor, a pharmacist and professor, leads "Healthy and Fit," covering prevention and wellness. Buttross, a pediatric specialist, hosts "Relatively Speaking," exploring child development and family relationships. Stewart focuses on pediatric care in "Kid and Teen Health," while Owens addresses a wide range of topics in "Women's Health."

"The show is so much fun because I can cover so many areas," Minor said. "We talk about health promotion, maintenance and how to stay well even when life throws challenges your way."

Owens said her segment extends beyond traditional women's health topics.

"We talk about issues like heart disease, hypertension and diabetes," she said. "It's really about health from a broader perspective."

Since expanding to a five-day format in 2014, the program has grown significantly in popularity. Owens' segment has become one of MPB's top-rated shows, with Stewart's program also drawing strong listenership.

Despite its conversational tone, the mission is serious.

"We do this to serve the public and improve health literacy," deShazo said. "We see a lot of suffering in this state, and education is key."

Callers often guide the discussion, sometimes in unexpected directions.

"We get everything from questions about toenail fungus to more sensitive topics that people hint at rather than say outright," deShazo said.

The live format means hosts must think on their feet, offering guidance while recognizing the limits of radio-based advice.

"Sometimes, the best we can do is listen and acknowledge what someone is going through," Buttross said, recalling a caller struggling with grief. "Even sharing their story can be therapeutic."

Behind the microphones, the hosts support one another, even when their perspectives differ.

"We don't always agree, but that's part of what makes the show strong," Minor said.

Producers and station leadership credit the program's success to its authenticity and accessibility.

"There is no other public broadcasting network offering this level of daily access to physicians," said producer Jay White.

For listeners, the impact is tangible.

"We've heard from people who sought screenings or improved how they manage medications because of something they learned on the show," deShazo said.

Owens said some of the most meaningful moments come when callers share personal stories.

"People open up about difficult experiences, including domestic violence, and encourage others by showing there is hope," she said.

As the program continues to grow, its goal remains the same: to inform, support and empower Mississippians to take charge of their health.

To listen live to "Southern Remedy," visit mpbonline.org/programs/radio/listen-live.