In this episode, host Alexandria Rene sits down with Charles Allen, recording artist and songwriter who made waves on American Idol Season 12, advancing to the top 80 out of 100,000 contestants. Charles was misdiagnosed with bipolar depression. Since learning what his real diagnosis is, Charles is using his platform to bridge gaps in treatment, reduce stigma, and empower people to find balance. This episode includes discussion around depression and thoughts of self-harm. Listener discretion is advised. Episode sponsor: Saginaw County Health Department.

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In this episode on Healthier Me, host Alexandria Rene sits down with Bob Johnson, former editor at The Saginaw News, for a deeply reflective conversation about journalism and loss. After a career spent telling other people’s stories, Bob opens up about the most difficult article he ever wrote – a personal family tragedy. This episode includes a discussion of grief and infant mortality. Listener discretion is advised. Episode sponsor: CMU Health. Learn more at cmuhealth.org. Follow BWell Saginaw on social media!

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Host & Executive Producer Alexandria Rene Instagram/@msalexrene Executive Producer Melinda Shriner

Producer & Editor: Josh Eckman Instagram /@j_cmedia

After battling substance use for 25 years, Donna Clarke now pours that same strength into helping others rediscover their purpose. As executive director of Emmaus House of Saginaw, she offers honesty, hope, safety and support to women coming out of jail, prison and rehab.

Wife and mother of three, Theresa struggled with body image and her weight for years. She tried numerous fad diets and felt that nothing was working. Today she shares the one thing she did to release the weight and gain back her confidence.

Growing up in a family that emphasized healthy eating and physical activity, Dr. Allen developed a deep passion for prevention, which sparked her interest in weight loss as a physician. She observed that many of her patients had medical conditions related to obesity but lacked the necessary tools to lose weight. Dr. Allen joins this episode to share how she is empowering not only her patients but also the Saginaw community to effectively manage weight.

From a young age, Rwaida recognized the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. However, a challenging moment in her early twenties prompted her to prioritize health and nutrition, Since then, Rwaida's journey has led her to embrace self-accountability and create a welcoming space for others to discover their joy and strength. 

Elisa Urtiaga-Medina discusses how practicing yoga led her on a path to help influence lives. From Chicago, South America, Baltimore and now Saginaw...Elisa's health journey began when she was just 17 year old looking for a way to manage her chronic stress. Over the years, this mindfulness practice has led her to create her own business called Prem Yoga & Wellness and work as a community activist.

Anthony Brown's health journey began in middle school when he started doing push-ups every other night. He then lifted his first set of weights in high school and has never looked back. Over the years, Anthony's transformation has been fueled by intense discipline, until a devastating moment triggered a newfound passion that resulted in bodybuilding.

Diana was born and raised right here in Saginaw. After experiencing a major bout of depression and anxiety, she took control of her life and worked on improving her mental and physical health. By losing more than 60 pounds, Diana rediscovered her power and is now helping others to thrive in their lives.