During our Teens on Tuesday's segments with host Dr. William Dodd, learn more about ways to support adolescents' well-being during their journey to adulthood. 

Join us today for a discussion about a dangerous condition that usually develops during adolescence, eating disorders. 

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program. 

Further reading / resources: 

https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/eat-disorder.html 

https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/eating-disorders-13-signs-teenagers-podcast-322502/ 

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Mental Health Resources with Dr. Twisha Shukla 

During our Teens on Tuesday's segments with host Dr. William Dodd, learn more about ways to support adolescents' well-being during their journey to adulthood. 

Join us today for a discussion about mental health resources for adolescents. 

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program. 

Further reading / resources: 

https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships/get-your-teen-screened-depression 

https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults/Youth-and-Young-Adult-Resources/ 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/positiveparenting.htm 

https://www.tn.gov/behavioral-health/need-help.html 

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Unported Video Link: https://youtu.be/h8RmuRCZCWg 

Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) with Dr. Soumya Jena 

During our Teens on Tuesday's segments with host Dr. William Dodd, learn more about ways to support adolescents' well-being during their journey to adulthood. 

Join us today for a discussion about the gold standard of contraception, LARCs. 

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program. 

Further reading / resources: 

https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/05/adolescents-and-long-acting-reversible-contraception-implants-and-intrauterine-devices 

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/bc4teens/for-providers/low-maintenance-contraceptives 

Music derived from Song: Justhea - Happy  

Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.  

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Unported Video Link: https://youtu.be/h8RmuRCZCWg 

About the Guest:

Meagan Meisenzahl is a dedicated health professional currently serving as the Director of the Strong Starts Program at Ballad Health's Niswonger Children's Network. With a master's degree in public health, Meisenzahl has built a robust career grounded in trauma injury prevention and population health. She previously managed the Strong Starts Program and served as the Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator at Niswonger Children's Hospital. Meisenzahl is committed to improving health outcomes by identifying and addressing social determinants of health and is passionate about driving access to essential resources for families during the critical years from prenatal stages through early childhood.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the "Growing Stronger Together" podcast, host Dr. Karen Schetzina engages in a lively discussion with Meagan Meisenzahl, the Director of the Strong Starts Program at Ballad Health's Niswonger Children's Network. They delve into the program's mission, which is centered around addressing the health-related social needs of families in the Appalachian Highlands, including Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. Meisenzahl shares insights into her department's efforts to support expecting families and caregivers of children up to age five through dedicated social care navigation.

Meagan discusses the critical role of the Strong Starts navigators, who collaborate closely with families to connect them to essential local resources like food, financial stability, and social support groups. Meisenzahl emphasizes the inclusivity of the program, welcoming all caregivers, not just biological parents, recognizing the diverse forms family support can take. Throughout the episode, the conversation highlights the program's significant, collaborative impact, encompassing partnerships with organizations like the Strong ACC and leveraging community resources to foster a comprehensive support network.

Key Takeaways:

• The Strong Starts Program addresses health-related social needs to support expecting and current caregivers of young children in the Appalachian Highlands.
• Strong Starts navigators are embedded in multiple healthcare settings to build relationships and connect families to local resources and support services tailored to their needs.
• The program is inclusive of various caregiver roles, emphasizing support for reunification processes and extending outreach to foster, adoptive, and biological parents, grandparents, and more.
• Meagan Meisenzahl underscores the importance of partnerships to enhance service delivery, notably through collaborations within the Strong Accountable Care Community.
• Training in trauma-informed care and mental health first aid, among others, equips navigators to provide thorough and multifaceted support to client families.

Notable Quotes:

• "We're a support program that's focused on health-related social needs or social determinants of health." - Meagan Meisenzahl
• "We want to help whoever, no matter what, and make sure that their story is heard." - Meagan Meisenzahl
• "It's hard to ask for help, but just know that we wouldn't be offering it if we didn't want to help." - Meagan Meisenzahl
• "I think we're better when we have other people to lean on." - Meagan Meisenzahl

Resources:

• Contact Strong Starts Program: Phone - 423-431-4844. Email - [email protected]
• Website: Ballad Health - Strong Starts Program
• Read and Play Books: ETSU Department of Pediatrics
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Strong ACC, Appalachian Promise Alliance, YWCA

To explore more about the Strong Starts Program's impact and how it supports regional families, listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more insightful content from the "Growing Stronger Together" podcast.

Depression Medication with Dr. William Dodd, guest host Caylyn Yost 

 During our Teens on Tuesday's segments with host Dr. William Dodd, learn more about ways to support adolescents' well-being during their journey to adulthood.  

Join us today for a discussion about medical aspects of treatment of depression in teenagers. 

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program. 

Further reading / resources:  

https://childmind.org/article/medication-for-kids-with-depression/ 

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/teen-depression 

Music derived from Song: Justhea - Happy   

Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.   

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Unported Video Link: https://youtu.be/h8RmuRCZCWg  

About the Guest:

Donna Shope: Donna Shope is the Senior Director of Early Literacy for the Department of Education in Tennessee. With over 20 years of experience in education, Donna has held various roles including Head Start teacher, kindergarten to fourth-grade teacher, assistant principal, and literacy coach. Her extensive background in literacy and dedication to serving young learners has equipped her as a vital contributor to Tennessee's educational landscape, advocating for early literacy and development across the state. Donna's work emphasizes the importance of understanding the science of reading and its application in the classroom and at home to foster literacy development from a young age.

Episode Summary:

Join host Kim Hale in this insightful episode of "Growing Stronger Together" as she welcomes Donna Shope to discuss the importance of early literacy. Broadcasting from the cozy confines of Napop Media in Johnson City, Kim and Donna delve into the resources and strategies that can bolster children's reading skills at home. This episode sheds light on how parents and guardians can actively engage in their children’s literacy journey using a well-curated set of tools and techniques.

In their conversation, Kim and Donna explore a variety of critical topics concerning early literacy development. They dive into essential reading tips, emphasizing the critical role of parents in establishing a reading routine and fostering an enriching reading environment. Donna introduces several Tennessee Department of Education resources designed to support literacy at home, such as interactive decodables and toolkits aimed at improving reading comprehension and facilitating engaging parent-teacher conferences. With an emphasis on understanding RTI and the complexities of reading as a skill, this episode is rich with SEO keywords like "early literacy development," "reading comprehension," and "parent-teacher communication."

Key Takeaways:

• Establish a daily reading time to cultivate a habit in young learners and make reading a consistent part of their routine.
• Focus on choosing books that match your child's interests to foster a love for reading and show them that reading can be enjoyable and educational.
• Utilize interactive decodables and available online resources to support what is being taught in schools, ensuring reinforcement of literacy skills at home.
• Understand the role of Response to Instruction and Intervention (RTI) in literacy and how it supports struggling readers through targeted methods.
• Equip parents with effective communication strategies for parent-teacher conferences, ensuring they are prepared to engage in meaningful discussions about their child's progress.

Notable Quotes:

• "Choosing books that interest your child will not only make them more interested in reading, but it's going to show them they can learn from books." — Donna Shope
• "Be a good reading role model…read with expression." — Donna Shope
• "In Tennessee, we have an approach called Response to Instruction and Intervention…it's designed to strengthen a student's foundational knowledge." — Donna Shope
• "The more we have learned about the science of reading, the ability to teach that code is miraculous to me." — Kim Hale
• "Learning to read is often a hard job too." — Donna Shope

Resources:

• Tennessee Department of Education
• Interactive Decodables Website
• Toolkits: Understanding Literacy, Understanding A Sounds First Approach, Supporting Literacy at Home
• RTI Resources
• Guide for Parent-Teacher Conferences

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for parents and educators alike, offering useful tips and resources to enhance children's reading skills. Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into early literacy development and stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "Growing Stronger Together."

Chronic Illness and Mental Health with Dr. Haley Bradshaw

During our Teens on Tuesday's segments with host Dr. William Dodd, learn more about ways to support adolescents' well-being during their journey to adulthood. 

Join us today for a discussion about chronic illness and mental health.

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program.

Further reading / resources: 

https://childmind.org/article/mental-health-in-children-with-chronic-illness/

https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/psychological-complications-chronic-illness

Music derived from Song: Justhea - Happy  

Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.  

Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0  

Unported Video Link: https://youtu.be/h8RmuRCZCWg 

About the Guest:

Dr. Cynthia Thomas is a primary care physician and assistant health officer at the Tennessee Department of Health's Northeast Regional Health Office. With 13 years of service at the Department of Health, Dr. Thomas provides primary care services to uninsured patients and oversees clinical STI and family planning services. She also supervises nurse practitioners and engages in the development and implementation of prevention initiatives, specifically focusing on maternal and child health and the prevention of congenital syphilis. Her extensive experience and leadership make her a key figure in addressing public health concerns in the region.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of "Growing Stronger Together," host Dr. Karen Schetzina engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Cynthia Thomas about a pressing public health issue—syphilis, particularly its impact during pregnancy and on newborns, termed congenital syphilis. Dr. Thomas shares her extensive experience from the Tennessee Department of Health, emphasizing the alarming increase in syphilis cases and its profound implications. With over a decade of experience in public health, Dr. Thomas provides a detailed narrative on the historical context, symptoms, complications, and prevention strategies for syphilis.

The conversation delves deep into the multiple stages of syphilis infection, elucidating why it's known as the "great imitator" due to its varied symptoms. Dr. Thomas explains that syphilis remains a significant concern today, underscored by the startling rise in congenital syphilis cases. She highlights the importance of early screening and treatment, particularly for pregnant women, to prevent congenital infection in newborns. The episode also addresses the crucial role of healthcare providers and families in curbing the spread of syphilis through awareness, testing, and appropriate medical interventions.

Key Takeaways:

• The rate of syphilis infections has alarmingly increased over the past decade, notably affecting pregnant women and newborns.
• Syphilis is known as the "great imitator" due to its ability to present symptoms similar to a variety of other diseases.
• Primary penicillin treatment remains effective for curing syphilis, yet individuals can be reinfected without preventive measures.
• Prenatal care and screening for syphilis are crucial in preventing congenital syphilis and its severe health impacts on newborns.
• Healthcare professionals are encouraged to consider syphilis testing at diverse healthcare encounters, especially for individuals capable of becoming pregnant.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Syphilis is not an infection that's probably been on everyone's radar in recent years, but because of increasing case rates and prevalence in our region, I would just want families to understand what the infection is and how to prevent it."
2. "The alarming increase in syphilis cases in the general population, particularly among women, is a growing concern, leading to more cases during pregnancy and congenital syphilis in newborns."
3. "We are here to support healthcare providers with resources, reporting, and partner treatment to effectively tackle the rise in syphilis cases."
4. "Early screening and treatment with penicillin can prevent the transmission of syphilis and its severe health consequences, especially in unborn children."
5. "Regardless of your insurance status or ability to pay, testing and treatment for syphilis are readily available at local health departments."

Resources:

• Tennessee Department of Health
• Local health department resources for STI testing and counseling
• From the Tennessee Department of Health: Syphilis
  
  From CDC:
  About Syphilis | Syphilis | CDC
  About Congenital Syphilis | Syphilis | CDC
  
  From End the Syndemic Tennessee:
  STIs – End The Syndemic

Don't miss this enlightening episode on the "Growing Stronger Together" podcast for a deeper understanding of the public health challenges surrounding syphilis. Stay tuned for more episodes focused on the health and wellbeing of mothers, children, and families.

About the Guest:

Jennifer Havens serves as the Head Start Director for Telamon Corporation in Tennessee. Her role involves orchestrating Head Start programs, which provide educational and developmental services to children and families. With extensive experience and passion for early childhood education, Jen focuses on creating opportunities for children's growth and supporting families to overcome poverty. Telamon Corporation, a nonprofit with a focus on community development and educational services, operates across ten states in the U.S., and Jennifer plays a pivotal role in expanding and enhancing Head Start services in Tennessee.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of the Growing Stronger Together podcast, Kim Hale welcomes Jennifer Havens, the Head Start Director in Tennessee for Telamon Corporation. The conversation explores the multifaceted world of Head Start programs and the significant impact these initiatives have on children and families across Tennessee. Jennifer Havens shares her journey with Telamon Corporation and how they work diligently to break the cycle of poverty by providing holistic support not only to children but also to their families. This discussion delves into details of various Head Start services, from traditional and migrant programs to the expansion of Early Head Start, highlighting the breadth of services and support they offer.

The episode dives deep into how Telamon Corporation is committed to improving communities through their wraparound approach, which encompasses education, health, and family support. The discussion emphasizes the importance of early childhood education, focusing on integrated assessments and developing personalized plans that cater to the unique needs of each child. Jennifer sheds light on how Head Start programs are structured and funded, the challenges they face, and the critical need for increased funding to address community gaps. This informative conversation serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the role and impact of Head Start in fostering strong, prosperous communities.

Key Takeaways:

• Head Start programs, spearheaded by Telamon Corporation, play a crucial role in offering educational and developmental support to children aged birth to five, fostering school readiness and overall well-being.
• Jennifer Havens emphasizes the critical importance of breaking the cycle of poverty with a holistic, wraparound approach that supports families in career development and financial literacy, alongside early childhood education.
• The discussion uncovers the structure and funding of Head Start programs, highlighting the competitive nature of federal grants and the ongoing advocacy for increased funding to address childcare deserts.
• Health care, dental, and familial engagement are integral components of Head Start programs, ensuring that both children and their parents receive comprehensive support for sustainable development.
• Jennifer shares how community partnerships enhance Head Start's reach, enabling various events and initiatives that directly benefit families, particularly those within the agriculture sectors under the migrant and seasonal Head Start programs.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Head Start wholeheartedly believes in providing not just to little people but to families, breaking the cycle of poverty with wraparound services."
2. "Jennifer Havens explains how career and workforce support goes hand-in-hand with early childhood education to truly uplift families."
3. "We invest in staff to ensure high-quality education for children, equipping classrooms with educated professionals who pour into children's development.”
4. "The Telamon Corporation focuses on the bigger picture, combining health, education, and family services to holistically support communities."
5. "Our job and passion are to connect parents to the right resources, to make not only their children successful but also empower families towards a better future."

Resources:

• Telamon Corporation Website
• Head Start Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center: hhs.gov

Tune in to this episode of Growing Stronger Together for more insights into the incredible work being done through Head Start programs, and stay connected for future episodes that continue to provide valuable resources and information for families and communities.

About the Guest:

Gloria Dudney is a highly experienced registered nurse and board-certified lactation consultant. With over 31 years in perinatal care and 20 years specializing in lactation consultation, Gloria currently serves as the Director of Lactation Services at ETSU Health. She provides patient care in obstetrics and pediatric clinics and has been a pivotal figure in training additional lactation care providers. Gloria also contributed to the statewide task force aimed at developing the lactation workforce in response to securing Medicaid reimbursement for lactation care in Tennessee. She speaks nationally on clinicians' roles in safeguarding breastfeeding duration.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Growing Stronger Together," host Dr. Varshini Balasubramanian, a pediatric resident at East Tennessee State University, delves into sensitive issues surrounding breast milk production following pregnancy loss. Her guest, Gloria Dudney, a seasoned lactation consultant, shares invaluable insights from her extensive career in perinatal care. As families navigate the complex emotions and physical challenges associated with pregnancy loss, this episode presents strategies and support systems available for mothers experiencing unexpected breast milk production.

The conversation addresses common challenges mothers face, emphasizing the often overlooked aspect of lactation that persists even after a pregnancy loss. Gloria Dudney discusses the intricacies of milk suppression, expression, and the potential benefits of breast milk donation. The episode offers guidance for healthcare providers on supporting grieving families and highlights the intersection between mental and physical health in this context. With SEO-optimized keywords like "breastfeeding support," "lactation consultation," and "pregnancy loss coping strategies," the episode aims to be an informative resource for families and healthcare professionals alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Mothers need full guidance on options for managing lactation after pregnancy loss, including milk suppression, expression, and donation.
• Suppression of milk production can involve pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods, with an emphasis on managing inflammation to protect long-term breast health.
• Healthcare providers should ensure mothers are provided anticipatory guidance and access to resources, including lactation consultants and mental health services.
• Donating breast milk post-loss can serve as a therapeutic process for mothers, offering them a tangible connection to their lost child and providing life-saving nutrition to vulnerable infants.
• Nutritional considerations and the avoidance of certain herbs and foods can influence lactation, either suppressing or promoting milk production.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The heights of joy, but you also have the depths of despair. It is a family's most sorrowful moment in the setting of a loss or a miscarriage." - Gloria Dudney
2. "The more gradually we do this and the kinder and gentler we are to the body, the better her breast health is for the long run." - Gloria Dudney
3. "Our job is to take your hand and walk you down each of these paths. Whichever path you choose, we should have the knowledge to provide the care for that journey." - Gloria Dudney
4. "This acts as medicine for our tiniest and most vulnerable of babies." - Gloria Dudney
5. "Preventing harm, preventing pain of all kinds, is what we're in the business of doing as healthcare professionals." - Gloria Dudney

Resources:

General patient information – lllusa.org/lactation-after-loss

Breastmilk banks – milkbanktn.org and hmbana.org

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline – 833-TLC-MAMA

Postpartum Support International – postpartum.net

TN Breastfeeding Hotline -855-4BF-MOMS (855-423-6667)

Literature review on abrupt weaning and breast cancer risk  - Ye, D et al, Association between breastfeeding, mammographic density, and breast cancer risk: a review. International Breastfeeding Journal (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s130006-024-00672-7.

Join us in exploring more insightful discussions on "Growing Stronger Together" podcast series, where we address essential topics for children's and families' health and well-being. Don't miss our future episodes for more valuable content and expert advice.

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program.

Music derived from Song: Justhea - Happy

Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.

Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0

Unported Video Link: ⁠⁠⁠https://youtu.be/h8RmuRCZCWg⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media