Pulmonologist & critical care physician Dr. Jamie Rutland joins Dr. Antonio Webb on the WebbMD Podcast for a candid, high-signal conversation about the pandemic, how the immune system really drives disease, and what we all get wrong about lung health. We cover: What Dr. Rutland actually saw in the ICU vs. what social media said Why immunology, not “magic,” explains COVID severity—and why viruses tend to become less virulent over time The truth about vaping vs. smoking and long-term lung risk Long COVID as persistent inflammation—how clinicians think about it Private practice realities: prior auths, denials, and advocating for patients Work-life “harmony,” teaching, and career advice for med students, residents, and new attendings A powerful story from the height of the pandemic—and the mindset that keeps great clinicians going If you care about science-based medicine, patient advocacy, and clear thinking in a noisy world, this one’s for you. Guest: Dr. Jamie Rutland IG: @drjrutland • Podcast: The Health Exchange • YouTube: Medicine Deconstructed Host: Dr. Antonio Webb (@antoniowebbmd) 👉 Subscribe for more surgeon-to-expert conversations that make complex medicine understandable. 👍 Like, comment your takeaways, and share with a colleague or friend who’d benefit. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Talk to your own clinician about your health.