Everyone has a status—and knowing it can save lives. 

Clark County continues to see HIV diagnosis rates higher than the national average, with disproportionate impact on Black and Hispanic/Latinx communities. Yet stigma, silence, and misinformation still keep too many people from getting tested or accessing prevention tools that already exist.

In this powerful year-end conversation, the Healthier Tomorrow hosts sit down with public health and HIV-prevention leaders to talk honestly about what’s happening in Southern Nevada—and what we can do about it. From home testing kits and mobile clinics to PrEP and PEP, this episode breaks down the facts, challenges the shame, and centers compassion, faith, and community as essential parts of public health.

About the Guests:

Chris Reynolds is featured as both a host and a guest in the episode. He is the President of the Southern Nevada Health Consortium and serves as the HIV Services Director for ASP Cares Pharmacy. Chris's role in public health is marked by his advocacy and leadership in HIV prevention and community engagement.

Raychel Holbertis a health educator at the Southern Nevada Health District, working on educating the community about public health issues and partnering on initiatives to improve healthcare access.

Cheryl Radeloff is a Senior Health Educator with the Office of Disease Surveillance. She collaborates with the HIV Prevention Planning Group and is instrumental in health education and public health coaching.

Episode Summary:

In this special year-end episode of the Healthier Tomorrow radio program, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens reflect on the journey of 2025 and share insights on future goals for 2026. They delve into a comprehensive discussion on health topics ranging from diabetes and heart health to maternal support and youth mental health, emphasizing the impacts noted in the Las Vegas community.

The episode features the pressing issue of HIV prevention and education within Clark County. Guest experts Raychel Holbertand Cheryl Radeloff explore the current state of HIV in Southern Nevada, highlighting the critical need for testing and addressing racial disparities in HIV rates, especially among black and Hispanic/Latinx communities. The discussion extends to novel prevention strategies, including home testing and innovative biomedical interventions like PEP and PrEP, underscoring the importance of knowing one's HIV status. As Ciara Owens articulates, "Everyone has a status, and we should all know it," it's clear this vital message is at the heart of the episode's theme.

Key Takeaways:

Notable Quotes:

Resources:

Engage with the full episode to dive deeper into the initiatives and voices shaping the health landscape of Southern Nevada. Stay connected for more impactful discussions in the future episodes of Healthier Tomorrow.

Teen mental health in Nevada is in crisis, but the story doesn’t end there. In this powerful episode, Jana Velasco shares how Hope Means Nevada is equipping teens with the tools to regulate emotions, choose joy, and build resilience long before a crisis emerges. Through human connection, socio-emotional learning, and community support, we explore how young people can reclaim their power—becoming the “captains of their own ship,” even in the most challenging times.

About the Guest:

Jana Velasco
Jana Velasco is the Executive Director of Hope Means Nevada, an organization dedicated to promoting youth mental wellness throughout the state. With a mission to eliminate teen suicide, Jana leverages her personal and professional experiences to connect with teens facing mental health challenges. Her leadership in the organization aims to provide vital tools and resources to Nevada’s youth to foster emotional regulation. Jana’s commitment to serving the community is also informed by her role as a mother and advocate for mental health awareness.

Episode Summary:

In this special edition of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens delve into an essential conversation on hope and mental health with Jana Velasco, Executive Director of Hope Means Nevada. This episode carries a particular focus on providing practical solutions and support for youth mental wellness across Nevada, addressing the state's unfortunate ranking of 51st for youth mental health in the nation.

Jana Velasco introduces the Teen Hope Academy, a proactive program aimed at equipping young individuals with skills in emotional regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance. This comprehensive initiative is designed to be accessible through virtual sessions, promoting mental wellness over crisis response. The hosts and Jana discuss the importance of choosing hope and joy, stressing the need for positive, compassionate community initiatives that engage both teens and adults. Throughout the conversation, they explore the impact of socio-emotional learning and the broader implications of mental health tools for long-term community transformation.

Key Takeaways:

Notable Quotes:

Resources:

Listeners are encouraged to tune in to the full episode for a deeper understanding of the impacts of youth mental health initiatives and to stay engaged with future episodes of "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more inspiring discussions.

What do nicotine, diabetes, and your daily habits have in common? More than you think. Today, we’re diving into two of the biggest — and most preventable — health threats facing our community. If you’ve ever wondered how to quit for good, or how to avoid a lifetime of medications, this episode is for you.

About the Guests:

Cassandra Miraz is a dedicated health educator with the Southern Nevada Health District’s tobacco team. Holding both a bachelor's and a master's degree with a focus in public health, Cassandra is passionately involved in community wellness, aiming to impact lives positively by promoting tobacco cessation and healthier lifestyles.

Amy Runge serves as a Clinical Nurse Manager at UMC Hospital and manages the Healthy Living Institute at UMC. With 30 years of nursing experience and a robust background in health promotion and chronic disease management, Amy emphasizes preventative care, striving to enhance health education and wellness outcomes across the community.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens guide listeners through pressing public health challenges, focusing on tobacco use and diabetes. Joined by insightful guests Cassandra Miraz and Amy Runge, the show delivers a wealth of knowledge tailored for health-conscious individuals and communities aiming to nurture a healthier tomorrow. The episode delves into the intricacies of nicotine addiction, secondhand smoke, and practical strategies to quit smoking while also exploring the vast landscape of diabetes management and prevention.

The discussion opens with Cassandra Miraz enlightening the audience about the pervasive effects of nicotine across various tobacco products. Her engaging insights into nicotine addiction, secondhand, and even third-hand smoke, bring to light the importance of comprehensive community strategies for reducing tobacco consumption. Amy Runge then enriches the conversation with her expertise in diabetes, stressing how lifestyle modifications can significantly mitigate health risks associated with diabetes. She advocates for proactive measures, such as regular screening and personalized health education, underscoring the program resources available through UMC's Healthy Living Institute.

Key Takeaways:

Notable Quotes:

Resources:

This episode dives into the critical issues of tobacco use and diabetes, offering practical advice and resources for a healthier lifestyle. For an in-depth exploration of these topics, tune in to the full episode and stay engaged with "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more insightful discussions and health-promoting content.

What keeps a pediatric surgeon up at night on Halloween? It’s not the ghosts—it’s what ends up in the ER.”

In this special Halloween episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, Dr. Erik Pearson joins Will Rucker and Ciara Owens to share real stories, expert tips, and surprising truths about keeping kids safe—from glow stick hacks to the dangers of costume fabrics and magnets. This is the conversation every parent should hear before trick-or-treating begins.

About the Guest:

Dr. Erik Pearson is a pediatric surgeon with a strong background in treating a variety of pediatric cases, from complex congenital conditions to routine surgeries like appendectomies. Having completed his pediatric surgery training at Emory University in Atlanta, Dr. Pearson currently practices in Las Vegas, where he has been a dedicated part of the community since 2017. His medical career started with a dramatic introduction during the one October event at Sunrise Hospital, marking his commitment to the community. Dr. Pearson is passionate about pediatric healthcare and emphasizes compassion as a core component of effective medical care.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to another engaging episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" with hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens. As the vibrant fall season sets in, this episode takes a spooky yet insightful turn as it dives into the safety measures surrounding Halloween. The discussion kicks off with Halloween anecdotes and how the community gears up for this festive season with a close look at costume tips and candy sharing. Venturing into more serious territory, the episode shines a spotlight on pediatric health and safety, especially focusing on Halloween-related concerns.

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Erik Pearson joins the show with his expert insights as a pediatric surgeon. He discusses the common and potentially hazardous injuries associated with Halloween among children, providing practical tips for maintaining safety. From advocating for the use of commercial pumpkin carving kits to recommending sequins or safer costume alternatives for visibility, Dr. Pearson covers a broad spectrum of effective preventative measures. Additionally, the episode addresses broader safety concerns, such as pedestrian safety, emphasizing the importance of parental vigilance and community responsibility. Dr. Pearson’s experience and stories reveal both the challenges and rewards of working in pediatric surgery, underscoring the profound responsibility of caring for children's health.

Key Takeaways:

Notable Quotes:

Encourage your curiosity and deepen your understanding by listening to the full episode. Tune in for more enlightening discussions and expert insights on "A Healthier Tomorrow," where we prioritize living compassionately and preparing for a healthier future. Stay connected and keep an eye out for more episodes that bring the community together through knowledge and shared experiences.

In this enlightening episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens sit down with three changemakers shaping Nevada’s public health landscape: Cristina Hernandez from UNLV’s School of Public Health, Rikki Jenkins from the Nevada Lactation Hub, and Lily Davalos from the Southern Nevada Health District. Together, they explore how research, advocacy, and education are coming together to create healthier, more equitable communities.

The conversation highlights the vital role of health educators during National Health Education Week, revealing how data-driven collaboration can help close gaps in food security, nutrition, and maternal-child health. Cristina discusses the EARN-FS project and its impact on connecting researchers with community needs, while Rikki sheds light on the barriers families face around breastfeeding and the importance of building a culturally competent lactation workforce. Lily brings the discussion full circle by emphasizing how health education empowers individuals to make informed decisions about diabetes, nutrition, and overall wellness.

This episode is a celebration of knowledge in action—showing that when community voices, science, and compassion align, we move one step closer to a healthier tomorrow.

Cristina  Hernandez is a project manager at the UNLV School of Public Health. She uses she/her/ella pronouns and has over five years of experience working on NIH-funded research projects focused on community health, food insecurity, nutrition, and maternal and child health services. Cristina  plays a key role in supporting Nevada's community partners by providing data essential for obtaining funding and implementing health programs.

Rikki Jenkins is an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) and Program Coordinator for the Nevada Lactation Hub. With a focus on increasing the lactation workforce and boosting Nevada’s breastfeeding rates, Rikki is at the forefront of efforts to combat the state’s low breastfeeding statistics. Her work is pivotal in fostering community support and addressing both cultural and socioeconomic barriers to breastfeeding.

Lily Davalos is a health educator at the Southern Nevada Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention. She is also a PhD student at the UNLV School of Public Health. Lily is committed to improving health literacy and advocacy related to nutrition, diabetes awareness, and physical activity, contributing significantly to local community health initiatives.

To hear more about the enriching discussions and valuable insights offered by our guests, tune in to the full episode. Stay connected for more inspiring content from "A Healthier Tomorrow," where we continue to explore the depths of public health and wellness.

Can a child really save a parents life?

In this powerful episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, pediatrician and health visionary Dr. Jerry Reeves reveals the surprising ways children are becoming health champions for their families — and how we can equip them to lead the charge.

Dr. Jerry Reeves is a distinguished pediatrician with an extensive career in both the medical and academic sectors. Growing up in southeast Texas, he pursued his education at Baylor University before serving in the Air Force as a pediatrician during the Vietnam War. Dr. Reeves has dedicated much of his career to pediatric hematology and oncology, treating children with blood diseases and cancer. Having relocated to Las Vegas in 1989, he joined Southwest Medical Associates and has since become a key figure in promoting health education and pathways for students interested in health careers.

In this enlightening episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, host Will Rucker welcomes Dr. Jerry Reeves to discuss crucial topics impacting the health and well-being of children and families. As the new school year begins, the conversation highlights the importance of equipping children with health knowledge and life-saving skills. The dialogue also underscores the alarming rise of chronic cardiometabolic conditions, such as diabetes and high cholesterol, among younger populations, and emphasizes the role of children in advocating for healthier family habits.

Dr. Reeves shares his insights on various health challenges faced by modern-day families. The discussion centers on proactive health measures, like adopting healthier dietary habits and advocating for wellness at home. Also featured is a segment on life-saving skills that children should learn, such as CPR and first aid, along with the safety considerations surrounding the increasing use of electric bikes by teenagers. Encouraging parents to become proactive in guiding their children toward safe practices, both Dr. Reeves and Will Rucker provide listeners with the resources and knowledge necessary to foster a healthier community.

Children can be powerful advocates for health within their families, promoting lifestyle changes that prevent chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Dr. Reeves stresses the importance of children learning life-saving skills, such as CPR, first aid, and stop-the-bleed techniques.

Electric bikes are a growing safety hazard for teens, as they lead to an increase in severe and fatal injuries; safe riding practices and helmet use are essential.

Though chronic conditions can be debilitating, optimal medical therapy and lifestyle changes can help manage these diseases effectively.

Dr. Reeves underscores that despite debates, Tylenol remains scientifically unproven to cause autism and is considered safe for use in fever reduction during pregnancy.

"We are an accumulation of the choices that we make throughout our life." — Dr. Jerry Reeves

"By speaking up in their own household, kids can help protect their parents from the ravages of diabetes and high blood pressure." — Dr. Jerry Reeves

"The technologies that are engaging teens 20 hours a day make it so they are not relating to other children that are their age." — Dr. Jerry Reeves

"Whether you have a helmet on or not almost doesn't matter, because you're so much danger to those around you, not just to you." — Dr. Jerry Reeves

American Red Cross – Offers a variety of health and safety trainings.

YMCA – Provides first aid training and resources.

University Medical Center, Las Vegas – Offers "Stop the Bleed" training programs.

Clark County Library District – Hosts health-related training sessions and loans health monitoring equipment.

On this episode to gather actionable insights into chronic health conditions, preventative health care, and the role of children in fostering a healthier tomorrow. Don't miss out on more engaging discussions and expert insights by tuning in to A Healthier Tomorrow. Stay informed and inspired as we continue to explore critical health topics impacting our communities.

Join Will Rucker and Ciara Owens for an enlightening episode of A Healthier Tomorrow as they explore how brain health, public policy, and community equity intersect. Featuring leaders from the Alzheimer’s Association and SNHD, this conversation breaks down 10 healthy habits, modifiable risk factors, and why brain health is everyone’s business.

Phil Kalsman is the Regional Director of the Alzheimer's Association for Southern Nevada, where he works tirelessly to raise awareness regarding Alzheimer's and brain health, challenging the stigma surrounding cognitive diseases.

Xavier Foster serves as the Health Equity Coordinator at the Southern Nevada Health District, playing a key role in integrating public health approaches to tackle cognitive diseases.

Ben Challinor is the Director of Public Policy for Nevada with the Alzheimer's Association, focusing on policy and advocacy to support Alzheimer's research and public awareness initiatives.

Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens in an enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" as they delve into the significant topic of brain health and Alzheimer's awareness with a panel of experts. This episode, aired in September during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, underscores the importance of mental and brain health, particularly emphasizing preventive measures and awareness.

The discussion is loaded with insightful perspectives from Phil Kalsman, Xavier Foster, and Ben Challinor, who offer their expertise on brain health initiatives, modifiable risk factors, and the pivotal role of community collaboration in driving impactful health changes. In this insightful conversation, the guests highlight the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and brain health while debunking myths about Alzheimer's being a normal part of aging. Important preventive practices such as maintaining cardiovascular health, engaging in cognitive exercises, and adopting a balanced diet are explored.

Xavier Foster discusses the coalition's action plan to tackle the stigma and spread awareness across communities in Southern Nevada. The episode also delves into the various factors affecting certain demographic groups disproportionately, emphasizing the need for tailored communication and outreach in diverse communities.

Discover more about the impact of community action on public health by tuning into the full episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow." Stay informed and inspired with more episodes that delve into the critical aspects of community well-being.

Opioid overdoses are on the rise in Southern Nevada—but every overdose is preventable. Join Will Rucker with experts from the Southern Nevada Health District as they uncover life-saving tools, community strategies, and powerful insights on substance misuse, overdose prevention, and mental health.

About the Guests:

Tamera Travis is an epidemiologist with the Southern Nevada Health District, specializing in data analysis to tackle public health challenges. Her expertise in epidemiology is instrumental in understanding community health issues, including substance misuse and overdose trends.

Katerina Pulver, is a health educator at the Southern Nevada Health District. She works within the Office of Disease Surveillance, focusing on substance misuse prevention and harm reduction strategies. Kat has been a key figure in organizing the Southern Nevada Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit.

Episode Summary:

Join host Will Rucker on this insightful episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" as he delves into pressing issues affecting Las Vegas' community health landscape. This episode explores the vital themes surrounding substance misuse, overdose prevention, and mental health awareness. With Labor Day and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month setting the backdrop, this episode is both timely and essential.

During the conversation, Will engages with Tamera Travis and Katerina Pulver from the Southern Nevada Health District, dissecting the intricacies of substance use trends and community health responses. Highlights include an overview of the Southern Nevada Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit, where harmonization in community efforts plays a pivotal role in combating the opioid crisis. Listeners are invited to learn about the innovative "Drug Checking Program" and the widespread availability of Narcan, vital resources aimed at overdose prevention and harm reduction.

Key Takeaways:

Notable Quotes:

Resources:

About the Guests:

Dr. Stephen Shane: Dr. Shane is a pediatrician at Renown Health and a Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. He runs the Healthy Lifestyles Clinic at Renown Children's Hospital, focusing on good lifestyle habits and healthy weight. Additionally, he collaborates with the Nevada 5210 program and the American Academy of Pediatrics to advocate for obesity prevention.

Carmen Hua: Carmen Hua serves as a Health Educator at the Southern Nevada Health District's Office of Disease Surveillance. She plays a significant role in community health assessments and improvement plans focused on outreach and involvement.

Tamera Travis: Tamera Travis is an epidemiologist at the Southern Nevada Health District. She contributes to community health assessments, utilizing her expertise to gather and analyze public health data and coordinate health improvement plans.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens explore critical issues surrounding childhood well-being and community health improvement in Southern Nevada. With the new school year underway, they highlight the importance of safety in school zones and fostering effective communication with children about their daily experiences. The show features Dr. Stephen Shane, who discusses the significant topic of obesity as a chronic and multifaceted disease affecting 20% of kids and 40% of adults. He provides insights into the preventative measures and the innovative Nevada 5210 program designed to promote healthier lifestyle choices for families.

The conversation then shifts to focus on community engagement, with Carmen Hua and Tamera Travis from the Southern Nevada Health District elaborating on the comprehensive Community Health Assessment. They share the prioritized outcomes of their extensive data collection and collaboration with community partners, emphasizing key areas such as access to care, chronic disease, public health funding, and substance use. The episode paints a vivid picture of the systematic efforts made to enhance community health, encouraging listeners to participate actively in shaping a healthier future for Southern Nevada.

Key Takeaways:

Notable Quotes:

Resources:

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the full episode for a deeper understanding of how these health initiatives are shaping Southern Nevada's future. Stay tuned for more insightful content from "A Healthier Tomorrow," as they continue to tackle pressing health issues with expertise and community-driven solutions.

Jazzmin Robled: Jazzmin is a dedicated community health professional who has been working with the Southern Nevada Health District for nearly five years. She began as a community health worker focusing on assisting mothers with children under the age of one and later advanced to a program coordinator role. Jazzmin now leads two teams, including the innovative "Embracing Fatherhood" program, aimed at empowering fathers in the greater Las Vegas area.

Dr. Julpohng "JP" Vilai: Dr. J.P. is the Vice President of the Nevada chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. With a strong background in pediatrics, Dr. J.P. advocates for children's health, particularly focusing on vaccination and developmental health. He is committed to fostering better understanding and implementation of immunization practices, emphasizing the importance of credible, science-based healthcare decisions for children.

In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens delve into the vital subjects of community health and vaccination with their distinguished guests, Jasmine and Dr. J.P. The conversation centers on health innovations like the Embracing Fatherhood program, as well as the crucial public health topic of school vaccinations. Jazzmin elaborates on how the Embracing Fatherhood program empowers fathers in Las Vegas by providing necessary resources and education to support family health. Dr. J.P., a leading pediatrician, sheds light on the importance of childhood vaccinations, addressing prevailing skepticism and misconceptions.

As the episode unfolds, Jazzmin highlights the significance of supporting fathers in their parenting roles through personalized visits and comprehensive resource linking, often addressing the needs of broader family units. Meanwhile, Dr. J.P. provides expert insights into Nevada's vaccination requirements, the critical need for catching up on missed immunizations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and overcoming vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation. Listeners are encouraged to rely on trusted medical sources and maintain an open dialogue with healthcare providers to make informed health decisions.

The Embracing Fatherhood program offers valuable support and education to fathers and father figures, promoting healthier family structures in the Las Vegas area.

Vaccinations are critical to public health, safeguarding not only individual children but also protecting against wider community outbreaks.

Nevada mandates specific vaccines for school entry, and timely immunization is emphasized to prevent common childhood illnesses.

Families who missed vaccinations due to the pandemic are encouraged to catch up to ensure comprehensive immunization coverage.

Trust in validated medical sources and dialogue with healthcare providers is crucial in making informed, evidence-based health decisions.

"Embracing Fatherhood is a new fatherhood program... tailored for dads... the goal is to empower fathers in their new role." - Jazzmin Robled

"Vaccines are safe, they're effective, they're one of the most effective ways to prevent disease." - Dr. J.P.

"It's not just about protecting your own child, but also protecting other people as well." - Dr. J.P.

"We want to have a conversation. We want to acknowledge that parents have fears, rightfully so." - Dr. J.P.

Southern Nevada Health District: www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org

Get Healthy Clark County: www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/shoptalk

Healthy Children: HealthyChildren.org

Immunize Nevada: ImmunizeNevada.org

Tune in to the full episode to gain comprehensive insights into fostering improved community health through initiatives like Embracing Fatherhood and understanding the crucial role of vaccinations. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "A Healthier Tomorrow"!