We all know we should be getting seven to eight hours of sleep. After all, we spend nearly one-third of our lives doing it. But here’s something most people don’t realize: not all sleep is created equal. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Peter Graham, Chief Medical Officer of Blue Care Network. Together, they discuss what deep sleep is, how to get more of it and what happens during deep sleep.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• What is deep sleep?
• How to sleep better
• What happens during deep sleep?
• How much of our sleep is deep sleep?

We've all felt it: you’re cruising through your day and suddenly—bam—it’s 3 p.m. and your eyelids get heavy, your focus dips and a nap sounds like the best idea anyone has ever had. Why does this happen? On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Crystal Lee, Medical Director in Clinical Decision Support. Together, they discuss the midday crash, what it is and ways to minimize it.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• The midday crash
• Why it happens
• How to prevent it

Olive oil, avocado oil, canola oil, coconut oil and even the classic vegetable oil. With so many options available, which oils should we be cooking with? On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian Shanthi Appelö. Together, they discuss the different types of cooking oils, which you should be using and why.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• Healthy ways to cook with oil
• Calories and fat in oils
• Smoke point
• What oils should you have?

Rising drug prices impact premiums and people alike. Hear how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is putting pharmacy innovations to work to reduce costs and expand access for our members and customers.

Sleep aids are everywhere, and new sleep trends are emerging as sleep becomes a major wellness priority. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Laura Hatton, Manager of Behavioral Health Parity at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss color noise, how they can help you sleep and the differences between them.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• Different color noises
• How noise can help you sleep
• Why different sounds appeal to different people

It seems like everyone is walking around with a water bottle and that’s a good thing. However, water bottles can pose a sneaky health risk.

On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dr. Jessica Huhn, Medical Director for Provider Engagement at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Together, they discuss the benefits of water bottles and how they can become a health hazard.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• The importance of hydration
• Why you need to clean your water bottle
• How to clean your water bottle

With the start of every year, health trends begin to emerge. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian Shanthi Appelö. Together, they discuss some of the health trends you should be paying attention to and some you could even try yourself.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• Fibermaxxing
• Protein
• Vinegar
• Gut health and more

Binge drinking is more common than you think—discover its hidden risks to your body and mind in this must-listen episode.

Dr. William Beecroft, Medical Director of Behavioral Health at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, explores the surprising ways binge drinking affects your physical health, mental well-being and overall lifestyle. From short-term consequences to long-term risks, you’ll learn the warning signs of excessive alcohol use and practical strategies to reduce harm. Hosted by Chuck Gaidica, this episode explores:

• What is binge drinking?
• What does alcohol do to the body?
• How to know if you’re drinking too often?
• Ways to drink less

When the daylight hours get shorter, it can really affect our mood. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Senior Health Care Analyst Josh McCullough. Together, they discuss the winter blues, happy lights and other ways to improve your mood.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• Why we need sunlight
• Do “Happy Lights” really work?
• How Vitamin D can help us in winter months
• What other factors can improve our mood

Both short term and long-term stress can have a negative impact on our health. On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Care Management Physician Dr. Angela Seabright. Together, they discuss the effects of stress on us both mentally and physically.

In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:

• How stress affects us
• How does stress increase risk of disease?
• Who does stress effect the most?
• How to manage stress