Health & Wellness Briefs

Health & Wellness Briefs

By Health & Wellness BriefsHealth & Fitness
Download on the App Store

Health & Wellness Briefs episodes

  • Mental Health Month

    In this powerful episode of Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You, Dr. Megan Amaya sits down with Harry Warner, Associate Director of Student Life Counseling and Consultation Services  and Director of Outreach at The Ohio State University, to unpack today’s most urgent mental health challenges — and what we can actually do about them. 

    What you’ll hear: 

    • Why anxiety is skyrocketing — and what the data tells us 
      • The truth about toxic behaviors like avoidance and isolation 
        • How our workplaces and identities shape mental health 
          • The surprising comeback of in-person therapy 
            • Actionable strategies to build emotional resilience and connection 
            • Whether you’re navigating stress, burnout, or just want real tools to support your well-being, this conversation will give you both insight and inspiration. 

              It’s Mental Health Awareness Month. Let’s talk. 

              • Transcription
              • Show Notes
              • 25 min
              • Spring Into Action: Boosting Your Physical Activity

                In our latest episode, we explore approachable and sustainable ways to incorporate physical activity into daily life, even during the busiest seasons. Learn how simple activities — from outdoor walks to recreational sports — can have a profound impact on physical health, mental resilience, and emotional wellbeing.

                We also discuss the science behind why short bouts of exercise are highly effective, how to make movement a social and enjoyable experience, and why prioritizing fitness is one of the most important investments you can make in yourself.

                • Transcription
                • Show Notes
                • 23 min
                • Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Active Individuals

                  Fuel Your Active Life: Nutrition & Wellness Tips for Every Journey 

                  Looking to power up your workouts and optimize your well-being? In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You, Dr. Megan Amaya sits down with Dena Champion, Lead Dietitian at the James Comprehensive Cancer Center, to break down the essentials of nutrition for active individuals. 

                  What You’ll Learn: 

                  • The key macronutrients that fuel your body and enhance performance 
                    • Smart meal and snack choices before, during, and after exercise 
                      • Hydration strategies to keep you feeling and performing your best 
                        • How stress impacts your dietary habits—and what you can do about it 
                        • Why Listen? 
                          Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, this episode delivers practical, science-backed insights to help you eat smarter, feel better, and stay energized. Tune in for expert tips that make healthy eating both simple and sustainable! 

                          • Transcript
                          • Show Notes
                          • 26 min
                          • Heart Health

                            February is American Heart Month, and there’s no better time to take charge of your heart health! In this powerful episode, Dr. Megan Amaya sits down with Dr. Laxmi Mehta, a leading cardiologist from Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center, to discuss the realities of heart disease, who’s at risk, warning signs to watch for, and the latest advancements in treatment and prevention.

                            • Transcription
                            • Show notes
                            • 22 min
                            • The Multiple Benefits of Pet Ownership

                              In this episode, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Vice President and Chief Wellness Officer at The Ohio State University, and Dr. Rustin Moore, an esteemed veterinarian and Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine explore the Multiple Benefits of Pet Ownership.  Discover the profound impact pets have on physical health, emotional well-being, and even behavior change, backed by cutting-edge research. Whether you’re a pet enthusiast or considering welcoming one into your life, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice. 

                              Tune in to unlock science-driven approaches for a healthier, happier you. 

                              Transcription

                              Show notes

                              13 min
                            • Family Caregiving for a Loved One with Dementia

                              Are you or a loved one navigating the complexities of caregiving for someone with dementia? In this compelling episode of Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk sits down with Dr. Mary Beth Happ, a distinguished professor and Co-Director of the Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving at The Ohio State University. 

                               What You’ll Learn: 

                              • Recognize Early Signs of Dementia: Understand the crucial differences between normal aging and early dementia symptoms to ensure timely support and intervention. 
                                • Overcome Daily Caregiving Challenges: Gain insights into managing supervision, enhancing communication, and handling behavioral changes as dementia progresses. 
                                  • Access Valuable Resources: Discover the comprehensive support offered by the Golden Buckeye Center, including cognitive screening tools, respite care, and adult day programs designed to alleviate caregiver stress. 
                                    • Embrace Future Innovations: Stay informed about the latest advancements in dementia care, from new medications and assistive technologies to dementia-friendly community initiatives and workplace support models. 
                                    • Why Listen? 

                                      • Expert Advice: Benefit from Dr. Happ’s extensive experience and research in dementia caregiving. 
                                        • Practical Solutions: Learn actionable strategies to improve your caregiving experience and maintain your well-being. 
                                          • Comprehensive Support: Find out how to leverage community resources and innovative programs to support both you and your loved one. 
                                          • Don’t Miss Out! 

                                            Whether you’re a seasoned caregiver or just beginning your journey, this episode provides evidence-based strategies and practical tips to enhance your well-being and support your loved ones effectively. Empower yourself with the knowledge and resources you need to thrive in your caregiving role. 

                                            Tune in now and take the first step towards a healthier, happier caregiving experience! 

                                            • Show Notes
                                            • Transcript
                                            • Resources
                                              • Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving
                                              • 23 min
                                              • Working Parent Burnout and Solutions to Help

                                                Struggling to keep it all together as a working parent? In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and Dr. Kate Gawlik dive into the realities of working parent burnout. From navigating the chaos of pandemic parenting to discovering the hidden impact on children’s behaviors, this discussion brings to light the toll burnout can take on families. They also introduce their evidence-backed Working Parent Burnout Scale, designed to help parents identify symptoms and take action. Tune in for practical strategies to reclaim balance, foster self-care, and create a healthier environment for both you and your kids. Listen now to start breaking the burnout cycle! 

                                                • Transcription
                                                • Show Notes
                                                • Resources
                                                  • Working Parent Burnout (Website with Resources)
                                                  • Working Parent Burnout (Full Report)
                                                  • Working Parent Burnout Scale 
                                                  • 19 min
                                                  • Kindness as a Key Strategy to Enhance Happiness

                                                    Boost your happiness and well-being with simple, evidence-based strategies! In this episode of Health and Wellness Briefs, Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Chief Wellness Officer at Ohio State, explores the power of gratitude and kindness with Tracy Stuck, Director of Community Partnerships. Discover how daily acts of kindness can reduce stress, enhance mood, and strengthen your social connections. Plus, learn how to build a culture of kindness in your workplace or community. Ready to spread happiness and create a ripple effect? Listen now and take the first step toward a better you! 

                                                    • Transcription
                                                    • Show Notes
                                                    • 13 min
                                                    • Preventing and Managing Depression

                                                      Boost your mood and well-being with actionable insights from Dr. Bernadette Melnyk and mental health expert Jodie Liester in our latest podcast episode. Discover how to recognize the signs of depression, the simple self-care practices that make a big difference, and the powerful role of exercise in preventing mood disorders. Whether you’re seeking effective treatments or looking to enhance your mental resilience, this episode offers evidence-based tips to help you lead a healthier, happier you.

                                                      • Transcript
                                                      • Shownotes
                                                      • 18 min
                                                      • Incorporating Mindfulness and Movement into the Classroom

                                                        Unlock the secrets to enhanced student well-being and academic success with Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Vice President for Health Promotion and Chief Wellness Officer at The Ohio State University. In this episode of “Health and Wellness Briefs: Tactics for a Better You,” Dr. Melnyk dives into evidence-based strategies to integrate mindfulness and movement into classroom routines. 

                                                        Highlights Include: 

                                                        • Mindfulness in the Classroom: Learn how simple yoga practices and breathing exercises can transform student focus and reduce stress. 
                                                          • Tackling Mental Health: Understand the critical need to address anxiety and depression in students and how wellness practices can make a difference. 
                                                            • Building a Wellness Culture: Discover how fostering a supportive environment can create a sense of community and improve academic performance. 
                                                              • Collaborative Wellness Strategies: Explore innovative ways faculty and students can work together to promote a culture of health and well-being. 
                                                              • Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Amber Essman, DNP, APRN-CNP, CLC, assistant professor of clinical practice, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, as she shares practical tips and real-world examples of integrating wellness into education. 

                                                                • Transcript
                                                                • Show Notes
                                                                • 17 min

                                                                About Health & Wellness Briefs

                                                                From the publisher's feed

                                                                Welcome to ‘Health & Wellness Briefs’ where Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, Vice President for Health Promotion and Chief Wellness Officer at The Ohio State University, brings you monthly mini-doses of…