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.

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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.

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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.

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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"!

Will Rucker and Ciara Owens celebrate June's vibrant health and cultural observances with insightful discussions on "A Healthier Tomorrow." Guest Mekale Holmes shares her experiences in tobacco prevention and the impactful "Because We Matter" initiative. Zarina Washington introduces the Nevada Creative Arts Collective, highlighting improv's role in stress management and resilience. The episode highlights the community's role in promoting smoke-free environments, exploring alternative therapies, and supporting diverse cultural celebrations, providing valuable resources and fostering unity through shared health goals.

About the Guests:

Mekale Holmes: MekaleHolmes is a dedicated public health professional at the Southern Nevada Health District, where she works in the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. With over six years of experience in the Tobacco Control Program, Mekalecoordinates the "Because We Matter" initiative, which aims to address smoking within the community, particularly focusing on tobacco-related health disparities affecting African Americans.

Zarina Washington: Zarina Washington is the creative director and executive director of the Nevada Creative Arts Collective. Her organization leverages the power of the arts to build resilience, utilizing methods such as improvisational arts to facilitate personal growth and community engagement. Zarina's passion for community service is evident in her work, which seeks to create a cultural shift towards healthier lifestyles through artistic expression.

Episode Summary:

Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens for an engaging episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," where they usher in June with a celebration of diversity, health awareness, and community engagement. This month marks a plethora of vital observances including Pride Month, Men's Health Month, Juneteenth, and National Safety Month. The show kicks off by highlighting various health and wellness initiatives aimed at fostering a smoke and vape-free lifestyle, especially within African American communities in Las Vegas.

Throughout the episode, MekaleHolmes Floyd, from the Southern Nevada Health District, shares insightful information about the dangers of tobacco use, particularly focusing on the pressing issue of vaping among youth. The show extensively discusses the impact of tobacco on health, the importance of quitting, and the resources available to assist in quitting nicotine addiction. The session progresses to introduce Zarina Washington, who delves into the workings of the Nevada Creative Arts Collective. She emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of arts as a tool to build resilience and cope with life's stressors, offering a creative avenue for personal and communal transformation.

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The insights in this episode equip listeners with valuable information on tobacco control, community health promotion, and the transformative power of the arts. Tune into the full episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" to deep dive into these essential topics, and stay connected for more enlightening discussions.

Explore Nevada's mental health landscape as Will Rucker and Ciara Owens discuss the state's last-place ranking in mental health access with Anna Bobb, MPH, Executive Director of the Path Forward coalition and Dr. Mason Turner from Intermountain Health. Discover collaborative care models, barriers to mental health support, and stress management strategies. Later, Minjia Yan unveils the revitalization of Las Vegas' Chinatown, tackling public safety, infrastructure, and community involvement. Gain insights on social determinants of health and how community-driven projects are shaping a healthier future. Stay informed on upcoming local events promoting mental wellness and empowerment.

Anna Bobb, MPH: Anna Bobb, MPH is a key proponent in the advocacy of mental health care access and is Executive Director of the Path Forward coalition, a Washington, D.C.-based group dedicated to improving mental health and substance use disorder treatment accessibility. Anna is instrumental in promoting the collaborative care model, aiming to enhance mental health services within primary care settings.

Dr. Mason Turner: Dr. Mason Turner is the Senior Medical Director for the Behavioral Clinical Program at Intermountain Health. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Dr. Turner is a leading figure in improving behavioral health care delivery. He actively promotes innovative strategies in mental health services, emphasizing accessibility and integrated care models.

Minjia Yan: Minjia Yan specializes in commercial real estate and serves as a project consultant for the Clark County Chinatown Redevelopment project. She is heavily involved in policy and regional planning concerning housing, transportation, and economic development within Southern Nevada. Minjia brings significant expertise in community-driven urban planning and redevelopment.

In this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens guide a vibrant discussion on mental health access and community redevelopment with their expert guests, Anna Bobb of Path Forward, Dr. Mason Turner from Intermountain Health, and Minjia, a key figure in the redevelopment of Las Vegas's Chinatown. The episode dives deep into the less visible aspects of public health—mental wellness and the influence of urban design—calling listeners to engage with the tools and insights necessary for fostering stronger, healthier communities.

Anna Bobb and Dr. Mason Turner reveal that Nevada ranks 51st in the U.S. for mental health care access and outcomes, highlighting an urgent need for change. Their dialogue introduces the collaborative care model, a promising solution aimed at integrating mental health services into primary care settings, thus breaking down barriers to access. With precision and empathy, Dr. Turner and Anna demonstrate how this model could save thousands of lives and enhance service delivery through strategic partnerships among healthcare providers, patients, and behavioral health coordinators.

Switching to urban redevelopment, Minja shares the fascinating history and future plans for revitalizing Las Vegas's Chinatown. Explaining how urban redevelopment intersects with public health, she recounts how community-driven approaches are transforming this area into a more vibrant and equitable space. Through infrastructure upgrades and policy adjustments, the Chinatown redevelopment project aims to address social determinants of health, ensuring accessibility and safety for residents and visitors. This episode blends insights into mental health innovations and community redevelopment, empowering listeners to envision and participate in a healthier, better-planned tomorrow.

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For listeners eager to engage deeply with these vital discussions on mental health and community planning, be sure to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more from "A Healthier Tomorrow."

About the Guests:

Trinh Dang-Mai is the Executive Director of NAMI Southern Nevada. With a background stemming from personal experiences with mental health challenges and the impact of trauma, particularly as the child of refugees from the Vietnam War, she has dedicated her career to mental health advocacy. Originally starting in education, Trinh’s journey into mental health work began when she sought help and connected with NAMI's family-to-family education class. She has been involved with NAMI since 2011-2012 and has since been an influential figure in promoting mental well-being and recovery.

Chris Wells is a licensed cosmetologist with over 23 years of experience and a salon owner for three years. Chris is passionate about the relationship between internal health and the condition of hair, skin, and nails. Participating actively in community health initiatives like the Beauty Salon Health Outreach Project, Chris is committed to incorporating health awareness into her salon environment.

Episode Summary:

Join Will Rucker in a captivating episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," where the conversation centers around mental health awareness, the stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and the intersection of beauty and health. This episode highlights the importance of a holistic approach to wellness, integrating insights from Trinh Dang-Mai of NAMI Southern Nevada, and Chris Wells, a seasoned salon expert. Tune in to gain inspiration and practical wisdom about maintaining mental and heart health.

This engaging conversation focuses on the multifaceted aspects of mental health recovery, with Trinh Dang-Mai sharing her personal journey. The dialogue emphasizes healing from trauma and managing mental challenges with an understanding of neuroplasticity and therapy. Listeners will learn about NAMI's initiatives, including their upcoming walk at Lorenzi Park on October 18, a community event aimed at raising awareness and providing support for individuals dealing with mental health issues. Trinh explains how recognizing warning signs early and fostering community support are essential to preventing issues, especially for youth.

In the second part of the episode, Will, Amineh Harvey, and Chris Wells discuss Salon Talk, focusing on heart health and perimenopause. Amineh outlines the importance of keeping women's health front and center, especially concerning the cardiovascular implications of perimenopause. The session provides valuable insights into managing health from a preventative standpoint, with practical tips shared by healthcare professionals. The episode closes with a motivational call to embrace mental and physical wellness practices, showcasing how supportive community engagements create spaces for healing and growth.

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Engage in this enlightening episode to expand your understanding of mental and physical health and join our community-driven discussions to make a tangible difference in your and others' well-being. Keep listening to "A Healthier Tomorrow" for more empowering conversations!