Our podcast is evolving from ERS Walk Talk to the Buena Vida Podcast, reflecting our commitment to support well-being as we enter 2025. Expect inspiring episodes, expert interviews, and practical tips dedicated to helping you live a "good life."

Today's episode covers the following topics:  

• Announcement of the podcast name change to Buena Vida
• Meaning behind the new name and its connection to well-being
• Continuation of quality content and commitment to the listeners
• Upcoming topics and notable guests for 2025
• Introduction of the new Money Talks podcast focusing on financial wellness

Learn more about the Buena Vida Program and subscribe to the new ERS Money MattERS newsletter to receive updates on the Money Talks podcast! 

Explore the transformative world of mental health management with our guest Dale Cook, CEO and co-founder of Learn to Live. Dale shares his personal journey with cognitive behavioral therapy, which inspired him to create a platform that makes mental health support accessible to everyone, everywhere. Discover how Learn to Live is tackling the stigma associated with mental health and offering digital programs that bridge the gap for those who might not seek traditional therapy. From breaking geographical barriers to fostering a proactive approach to well-being, Dale's insights offer a fresh perspective on the future of mental health care.

Learn to Live’s growth story is one of innovation and impact. Dale reveals the strategic steps taken to develop this digital platform, initially targeting consumers directly to engage with millions who are underserved by conventional therapy. By creating engaging digital content and programs for depression, anxiety, and more, Learn to Live has reached millions of Americans, with an expansion on the horizon. Dale discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a mission-driven organization, highlighting how collaboration between clinicians and business experts has been key in transforming lives and expanding their reach.

The conversation doesn't stop there—Dale outlines how Learn to Live measures success and plans for future expansions. From simplifying access with memorable codes to launching new programs targeting trauma, OCD, and ADHD, the platform is committed to enhancing user experience and outcomes. By fostering innovation and a culture of well-being within organizations, Dale emphasizes the importance of mental health as part of a holistic approach to health. As we look toward 2025, Dale encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and support platforms that democratize access to mental health resources.

Learn more about Learn to Live and how to join through the HealthSelect of Texas website.

Enroll today through the Learn to Live portal.  If prompted for a code, use TEXAS

Discover how you can finally conquer chronic pain without ever leaving your home. Daniel Perez, the CEO and co-founder of Hinge Health, joins us to reveal how his innovative digital health program is revolutionizing musculoskeletal care. You'll learn how Hinge Health's cutting-edge software and algorithms create personalized exercise therapy plans, health coaching, and educational resources, making physical therapy more accessible and affordable.

We also tackle the significant hurdles people face in accessing musculoskeletal healthcare, especially in large, rural states like Texas. Daniel shares insights into how Hinge Health provides a comprehensive solution that allows individuals to quickly access care from the comfort of their own homes, supported by dedicated physical therapists and health coaches. We discuss the strong connection between chronic pain and mental health, emphasizing how effective pain management can alleviate anxiety and depression.

Finally, get acquainted with the Enso device, a game-changing wearable gadget that delivers non-invasive pain relief through high-frequency electrical nerve stimulation. We'll also take you through the inspiring journey of two UK PhD students who turned personal challenges into the pioneering startup, Hinge Health. With impressive clinical outcomes and ambitious plans for the future, Hinge Health continues to transform musculoskeletal healthcare by integrating innovative digital solutions with traditional in-person care. Join us for an episode overflowing with insights and actionable advice for a pain-free life.

Learn more and apply to participate in Hinge Health today

Ever wondered how a single mom can pay off over $40,000 in credit card debt? Join us as we bring you the remarkable story of Kari Karber, Assistant Director of Customer Benefits at the Employees' Retirement System of Texas (ERS). Kari opens up about her inspiring journey from financial struggle to stability, sharing the practical strategies and mindset shifts that helped her achieve this incredible feat. As a single mother of two daughters, Kari's story is not just about numbers: it's a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of small, consistent steps in transforming one's financial future. Discover how she balanced her role at ERS, helping state employees navigate their retirement and insurance benefits, while also benefiting from those very services herself.

In this episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of managing finances during tough times, especially when it comes to supporting children's needs without breaking the bank. Keri reveals how leveraging community resources and being transparent about financial constraints can lead to creative, budget-friendly solutions. Learn about the practical tools she used for debt management, from setting percentage-based goals to visual progress trackers. We also explore the emotional highs and lows, including the joy of buying a wedding dress and preparing for future expenses like college and weddings. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights and actionable tips that can help you achieve financial stability and success.

Resources to Support Financial Well-being:

Baby-Steps to Financial Freedom Webinar
Budgeting & Debt Reduction Webinar
Retirement Planning from New Hire to Retiree Webinar
Texa$aver by Empower Website
OCCC's Budget Worksheet

What if you could take control of your heart health with the help of a simple app? Join us in this episode as we chat with Mayan Cohen, CEO and co-founder of Hello Heart, a groundbreaking digital health platform. Hello Heart combines a connected blood pressure monitor with personalized AI coaching is nothing short of inspiring. Together, we explore the challenges of managing cardiovascular conditions and the critical importance of tracking vital signs like blood pressure and cholesterol.

Discover how Hello Heart is revolutionizing heart health management by bridging the gap between medical diagnostics and accessible, preventive information. We'll dive into the innovative features of the Hello Heart app, including its Bluetooth-enabled heart monitor cuff, digital lifestyle coaching, and risk flagging features. Listen to real-life success stories like Jimmy Ramos, who managed to lower his blood pressure and detect a life-threatening arrhythmia, all thanks to Hello Heart. We also highlight the significant recognition Hello Heart has received in the healthcare community and its availability to Health Select of Texas participants starting September 1st.

To learn more about Hello Heart and to see if you qualify go to the Hello Heart Webpage for HealthSelect participants.

Unlock the secrets to effective strength training with Demetrius Bailey, a seasoned coach with a wealth of experience training professional athletes and military personnel. Demetrius reveals practical strategies to integrate strength training into your daily routine, helping you prevent injuries and improve functional movement. Learn how key exercises like squatting, deadlifting, and pressing can transform your fitness journey, no matter your current level.

Discover why maintaining muscle mass is crucial as we age, with startling statistics showing adults lose 2-3% of muscle mass each decade after the age of 40 without proper strength training. Demetrius introduces the concept of "microdosing" workouts—short, impactful sessions that fit into even the busiest schedules. Understand the role strength training plays in everyday tasks, from lifting to maintaining good posture, and gain practical tips for initiating and sticking to a regimen with 20-30 minute sessions, three to five times a week.

This episode also debunks common myths about strength training, such as the fear of becoming bulky or the misconception that it stunts children's growth. Demetrius offers creative ways to use household items for exercises and underscores the importance of proper form to prevent injuries. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, this discussion will equip you with the knowledge and motivation to build and maintain an effective strength training routine. Don’t miss the inspiring success stories and expert advice that make strength training accessible and beneficial for everyone.

Resources:

Starting a Strength Training Program Webinar Link
DPS Fitness Wellness Unit Daily Workout Calendar
DPS Fitness Wellness Unit Capitol Complex Class Information
5-Day Strength Training Challenge Playlist

In this episode Lacy chats with Corporal Harold Estep, a State Trooper from the Texas Department of Public Safety. Corporal Estep shares his inspiring story about how he lost 50 pounds and kept it off for over 10 years. He talks about his passion for health and fitness and gives practical tips on how to stay in shape.

Key Takeaways:

• Harold’s  Journey: Learn how and why Harold became a state trooper 
• Harold's Health Transformation:  lost 50 pounds and the steps he took to maintain his weight loss.
• Staying Motivated: Discover Harold’s strategies for staying motivated
• Coaching: Find out how coaching works and how you can support those around you with this process.
• Discover how Harold's Used Identity Reinforced his Habits: Harold shares how he started seeing himself as a fitness professional and that kept him on track. He wanted to be authentic! 

Resources:

• DPS Fitness Wellness Unit Resources
• HealthSelect Behavior Change Programs

In this episode of the ERS Walk & Talk Podcast, host Lacy sits down with Alexis Schminke, a Senior Training Specialist at DPS in the Aircraft Division, and a Certified Holistic Nutritionist with a background in chemistry and exercise physiology. They delve into key takeaways from the book "Metabolical" by Robert Lustig and discuss strategies for understanding and reducing sugar intake for improved health.

Key Points Discussed:

• What is sugar? and how it's hidden in foods.
• How sugar gets processed in the body
• How sugar is hidden in foods and why juice isn't good for us
• The NOVA food scale- what is processed food
• Strategies to eliminate some sugar from our diets

Check out our full Sugar Savvy webinar for more info or read Metabolical for yourself! 

Lacy interviews her own Airrosti (AIR-ROSTI) health care provider who has helped every member of her family with their injuries and pain over the years. Dr. Renfro talks about the most common types of pain he treats, like lower back, shoulder and neck pain, and some of the more interesting cases he’s treated. Airrosti’s unique approach to the recovery of soft tissue resolves most issues in roughly three visits. Find out what an hour of one-on-one, individualized patient care looks like with Airrosti providers, who are in-network (no referral necessary) to HealthSelect of Texas plan participants for a $25 copay.

Resources: 

https://www.airrosti.com/

Lacy talks with Sarah Karnes, Director of Library Development and Networking at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) and Andrew Glass, Director of Records Management at ERS about the boundless resources available through state and local libraries!  

Resources:
Texas State Library and Archives Webpage
Current Lobby Exhibit: Extra, Extra, Eyes of the World on Texas
TexShare Program
Find your Local Library