What do ballroom culture, high fashion, and HIV prevention have in common? More than you might think.

In this episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens sit down with Kiande Jakada and Juan Tejada from The LGBTQ Center of Southern Nevada to explore how they're breaking stigma, reaching young people, and changing the conversation around HIV prevention through bold, community-led initiatives.

From Condom Couture—a runway show where every design is made from condoms—to Las Vegas' growing ballroom scene, you'll discover how creativity is becoming one of the most powerful tools in public health.

About the Guests:

Kiande Jakada is an esteemed HIV health educator with the LGBTQ center of Las Vegas. With a passion for community health and advocacy, Kiande focuses on providing critical education on HIV awareness and prevention, actively engaging with diverse groups to promote informed, safer sex practices.

Juan Tejada is a Prep Navigator at the LGBTQ center of Las Vegas, specializing in HIV prevention and education on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Originally from New York, Juan brings his extensive experience in youth development and community empowerment to extend awareness and access to necessary health resources in Las Vegas.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to another invigorating episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosted by Will Rucker. This episode, featuring Kiande Jakada and Juan Tejadafrom the LGBTQ center of Las Vegas, delves into the innovative and community-focused approaches for promoting HIV awareness and prevention. As you listen, you'll discover their vibrant initiatives, including the unique Condom Couture fashion show and the first-ever ballroom event hosted by the center, designed to unite and empower marginalized communities while encouraging informed sexual health practices.

In today's conversation, Kiande and Juan lead us through the motivating factors behind their creative events aimed at increasing community engagement and education on HIV prevention. Condom Couture offers a vibrant display of art and safety intertwined, with designers crafting outfits from condoms to spark conversations about safer sex. Meanwhile, the Secret Garden Kiki Ball marks a significant step in fostering ballroom culture in Las Vegas, targeting young individuals and emphasizing the importance of safe and informed sexual behaviors. Both events underline the urgent need for increased access to preventive medications like PREP, particularly within Black and Latino communities.

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Tune into this insightful episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" and immerse yourself in the dynamic ways the LGBTQ center of Las Vegas is transforming community health initiatives. Stay connected with us for more enlightening discussions and vital resources to empower and inform our community. Remember, each of us contributes to the ocean of humanity, but as a drop, we make waves of impact.

In this episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens are joined by Lia Grimaldi, Project Manager with the City of Las Vegas Public Works Department, to explore the city’s ambitious Vision Zero initiative and its goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

Lia explains why traffic safety requires more than asking drivers and pedestrians to “be careful.” Vision Zero takes a broader, systems-based approach—using engineering, data, education, planning, and community input to create roads that are safer even when people make mistakes.

The conversation explores how a relatively small percentage of Las Vegas roadways account for the majority of crashes, allowing the city to focus resources where they can make the greatest difference. Lia shares how proactive data analysis helps identify dangerous corridors before another serious collision occurs, and how lower-cost improvements such as speed humps, chicanes, improved crossings, better signage, and increased pedestrian visibility can have a meaningful impact.

The episode also highlights Safe Routes to Schools, an initiative identifying and implementing safety improvements around local schools so children can walk, bike, and travel through their neighborhoods more safely. Lia discusses the role of new technologies, cross-sector partnerships, and collaboration with organizations such as the Southern Nevada Health District in advancing a more coordinated approach to roadway safety.

Just as important, the conversation emphasizes the role residents play. Through tools such as SeeClickFix, community members can report hazards, share concerns, and help decision-makers understand where safety improvements are most urgently needed.

At its heart, this episode asks us to reconsider how we think about traffic deaths. Crashes may not disappear entirely, but mistakes should not cost someone their life. Safer roads are not solely the responsibility of engineers, drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians—they require all of us.

Tune in to learn how Las Vegas is redesigning streets, using data more strategically, and building a culture in which every life on the road matters.

Vision Zero aims to eliminate all traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries in Las Vegas, focusing on an integrated approach involving engineering, education, and community involvement.

About 10% of Las Vegas roadways account for 60% of total crashes, highlighting key areas for potential safety improvements.

Safe Routes to Schools is a successful initiative identifying and implementing hundreds of safety improvements around schools, promoting safer environments for children.

The program's focus on low-cost, efficient safety measures like speed humps and chicanes has been both innovative and impactful.

Community input is vital, with platforms like CClickFix facilitating public reporting of traffic safety issues, supporting Vision Zero's proactive and data-driven methods.

"Crashes wont go away entirely, but those mistakes shouldn't result in fatals or serious injury crashes." - Lia Grimaldi

"It takes everyone with regards to traffic safety." - Lia Grimaldi

"We don't have all the funding in the world...but there are also things that we can do that are lower cost." - Lia Grimaldi

"We want to eliminate all fatals and serious injuries by 2050." - Lia Grimaldi

"I'm really proud of our Vision Zero program...in the past four years, we completed 50% of those actions." - Lia Grimaldi

Southern Nevada Health District: Information on community health programs and the Soda Free Summer challenge.

City of Las Vegas Vision Zero Program: Learn more about the Vision Zero initiative and projects.

CClickFix: Report any traffic safety issues in Las Vegas and become part of the safety solution.

Most people think health begins in a hospital or doctor's office. In reality, it starts much closer to home.

In this episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, Will Rucker sits down with Nellie Pelaez of the Southern Nevada Health District and Brittani Gray of Nevada HAND to explore why housing is one of the most powerful drivers of health—and how something as simple as the air inside your apartment can affect your family's future.

Nellie Pelaez
Nellie Pelaez is a dedicated health educator with the Southern Nevada Health District. Specializing in tobacco control policies, Nellie has over seven years of experience promoting smoke-free environments. She leads initiatives focused on improving public health through education and policy advocacy, particularly in the area of smoke-free housing initiatives.

Brittani Gray
Brittani Gray is the Vice President of Resident Services with Nevada Hand, a leading nonprofit organization committed to providing affordable housing. In her role, Brittani supports residents in 36 senior and family communities across Southern Nevada, ensuring they maintain their housing and have access to resources that promote well-being and sustainable living.

In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," host Will Rucker welcomes Nellie Pelaez from the Southern Nevada Health District and Brittani Gray from Nevada Hand to discuss the critical relationship between housing and health. Recognizing that health begins at home, the episode zeroes in on their collaborative efforts to create smoke-free living environments in multi-unit housing, a mission supported by the Southern Nevada Office of Chronic Disease.

Throughout the conversation, the episode sheds light on the essential initiatives aiming to reduce the impact of secondhand smoke, emphasizing the direct effect on individuals suffering from asthma, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. Utilizing SEO keywords like "smoke-free living," "public health," and "community wellness," the program instills the importance of smoke-free policies and the significant role housing plays in sustaining public health.

Listeners are encouraged to dive deeper into the insightful discussions of this episode to understand the profound impact of housing on health and explore more content from "A Healthier Tomorrow." Stay tuned for more conversations that elevate our understanding of community health.

Dr. Maia Carter joins A Healthier Tomorrow to explore why leadership may be one of the most overlooked public health interventions of our time. If you've ever wondered how better leaders create healthier communities, this conversation is for you.

Join Will Rucker and Dr. Maia Carter as they explore The Leadership Prescription, the THRIVE Framework, and the leadership lessons every professional needs before stepping into their next level.

Dr. Maia Carter is a distinguished medical doctor, public health professional, and certified leadership coach. With 18 years of medical practice and over 11 years in leadership roles, Dr. Carter is a respected authority in the healthcare sector. She has authored the insightful book "The Leadership Prescription," which provides a framework for developing leadership skills, particularly for clinicians stepping into leadership roles. Dr. Carter also holds a Master's in Public Health, highlighting her dedication to community health and wellness.

Welcome to a profound discussion on A Healthier Tomorrow with host Will Rucker, featuring the insightful Dr. Maia Carter. In this enriching episode, Dr. Carter dives into the intersections of healthcare, leadership, and personal identity. She shares a compelling narrative that encapsulates the journey from technical excellence to becoming a competent leader, emphasizing the critical need for emotional intelligence and self-leadership skills.

Dr. Maia Carter explores the essential leadership skills required for clinicians venturing beyond patient care into roles of influence and decision-making. Through her book "The Leadership Prescription," she introduces the Thrive Framework—a comprehensive guide for developing leadership competence that transcends healthcare and applies universally. Dr. Carter discusses the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and harnessing natural gifts, combating challenges like imposter syndrome, and the profound impact of community and relationships on personal and professional growth.

Explore the full episode for an enlightening journey through the nuances of leadership beyond healthcare and learn how to embody the principles of the Thrive Framework in your personal and professional life. Stay tuned for more engaging content on A Healthier Tomorrow!

From deploying natural predators like bats to the strategic release of genetically modified mosquitoes, discover the cutting-edge science and "biological hacking" being used to protect Southern Nevada from unpredictable diseases like the West Nile virus.

Whether you thought mosquitoes couldn't survive in the desert or you are just looking to protect your family this summer, this episode is a must!

About the Guests:

Vivek Raman:
Vivek Raman is a dedicated professional supervising the environmental health program with Southern Nevada Health District. He has a wealth of experience in public health, specifically focusing on mosquito surveillance, engaging with the community to trap and test mosquitoes for diseases like West Nile virus. His career began with service in the Peace Corps, sparking his passion for combating vector-borne diseases across various communities.

Dr. Louisa Messenger:
Dr. Louisa Messenger is an esteemed assistant professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Public Health. She spearheads the mosquito lab at UNLV, collaborating with local health authorities to enhance mosquito surveillance and research activities. Dr. Messenger's commitment extends to educating the community about mosquito-borne diseases and exploring innovative mosquito control strategies. She focuses not only on researching insects but also on eliminating them due to their health risks.

In this enlightening episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow" hosted by Ciara Owens, listeners gain critical insights into the burgeoning issue of mosquito presence in Southern Nevada. Despite its desert landscape, Las Vegas faces a growing concern of mosquitoes, which pose significant public health risks. The discussion coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month and Women's Health Month, emphasizing the importance of overall wellbeing. Ciara introduces Vivek and Dr. Louisa Messenger—experts in mosquito surveillance and public health—who join to shed light on the risks mosquitoes pose and the steps being taken to monitor and control their impact.

Throughout the episode, Vivek explains the intricate process of mosquito surveillance and the necessity of community involvement in mitigating this issue. Dr. Louisa elaborates on the biological intricacies of mosquitoes and emphasizes their distinction as the most dangerous animals on the planet due to the severe diseases they can spread, such as West Nile virus. The conversation also addresses misconceptions about mosquito prevalence in the desert environment and explores innovative solutions to reduce mosquito populations. The episode urges residents to adopt preventative measures at personal, household, and community levels to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses.

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For an engaging and thorough exploration of mosquito surveillance and prevention, tune in to this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow." Stay connected for more insightful discussions that contribute to healthier communities across Nevada.

In this episode of A Healthier Tomorrow, we uncover how menthol tobacco is engineered to hook communities, why what you eat might be shaping your mental clarity more than you realize, and how Las Vegas is quietly building a blueprint for a healthier future.

From No Menthol May, to the surprising connection between your gut and your mind, to real community solutions happening right now… this conversation might change how you see your health, your habits, and your power.

Mekale Holmes: Mekale Holmes is a passionate health advocate working with the Southern Nevada Health District, championing the cause against menthol tobacco use, particularly in African American communities. She's an influential figure behind the local expansion of the national no Menthol May campaign, tirelessly working with faith-based and community organizations to raise awareness about menthol tobacco's effects on health.

Amineh Harvey: Amineh Harvey is a Senior Health Educator with the Southern Nevada Health District, leading heart disease and stroke prevention programs. She has a strong commitment to promoting community health and delivers impactful resources and knowledge through community-oriented events and programs.

Stacey Dougan: Chef Stacey Dougan is a renowned plant-based chef and nutritionist with over 25 years of experience. As a restaurateur and entrepreneur with a dedication to holistic wellness, Stacey educates families and communities about nutritious and balanced eating, often blending culinary arts with wellness advocacy.

In this enriching episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage listeners in a vital conversation about community health and the role of preventive measures in cultivating wellness. Broadcasting from Las Vegas, this episode features insightful discussions on the benefits of being present in one's life, the harmful impact of menthol in tobacco products, and the power of nutritious food. With a blend of personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode highlights how individuals can weave wellness into their daily lives while also considering the broader public health landscape.

Mekale Holmes addresses the adverse effects of menthol tobacco products and the no Menthol May campaign, encouraging the community's involvement to combat these issues. Meanwhile, Stacey Dougan shares her journey and expertise in plant-based nutrition, revealing how mindfulness and proper eating habits can foster both mental and physical health. Amineh Harvey provides insights into making health resources accessible through community events like the Heart of the Community Block Party, demonstrating the importance of linking individuals with critical health services and educational opportunities. Together, these discussions spotlight the myriad ways Las Vegas communities are coming together to experience and promote nutritious, smoke-free living.

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To dive deeper into how you can integrate healthier habits into your life while understanding the broader impacts of community health initiatives, tune into the full episode. Stay connected for more transformative conversations that inspire and equip you toward living a richer, health-oriented life.

Join hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens as they explore heart health in this informative episode. Featuring guests Angel Garcia, Amineh Harvey, and Daidre Gamboa from Dignity Health and Southern Nevada Health District, the discussion covers essential topics such as hypertension, heart disease prevention, and practical lifestyle adjustments. Discover the benefits of a 20-second hug, low sodium tips, and learn about community programs like the Healthy Heart program and blood pressure screenings. Embrace heart health and discover the connection to overall wellbeing with expert insights and community resources.

Angel Garcia: Angel Garcia is a dedicated health educator from Dignity Health who specializes in chronic disease prevention. With a personal journey that transitioned from graphic design to public health, Angel brings a wealth of knowledge on heart disease, healthy living, and education as a preventive tool for cardiovascular conditions.

Amineh Harvey: Amineh Harvey represents the Southern Nevada Health District and is known for curating events like the "Salon Talk," which promotes heart health among black women. She is a proactive figure in public health, focusing on creating awareness and education in minority communities.

Daidre Gamboa: Daidre Gamboa is a public health expert from the Southern Nevada Health District, focusing on community outreach and education related to cardiovascular health. Her work emphasizes trust-building within communities to promote better health outcomes.

In this episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage in an enlightening discussion on heart health, marking February as Heart Month. The episode features Angel Garcia from Dignity Health and experts Amineh Harvey and Daidre Gamboa from the Southern Nevada Health District. As they delve into the topics of heart disease, blood pressure awareness, and preventive health measures, they underscore the significance of building a healthier community through education and proactive health management.

Throughout the episode, the guests highlight critical factors influencing heart health, especially within African American and Hispanic communities. They discuss the impact of social determinants like systemic racism and health disparities, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's health numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. The speakers explore various strategies for managing heart health, from reducing sodium intake to regular physical activity and stress management, encapsulating an integrative approach to chronic disease prevention.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with these initiatives and participate in upcoming events, making informed choices about their heart health. Don't miss out on joining more enriching conversations in future episodes of "A Healthier Tomorrow."

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.