What The Health: News & Information To Live Well & Feel Good

Discover the continuing threat of tobacco use in America in this episode of What the Health. John Salak delves into the hidden crisis of smoking with Jennifer Folkenroth, Senior Director of Nationwide Tobacco Programs for the American Lung Association. Despite significant declines in cigarette smoking since 1965, tens of millions of Americans still smoke, leading to hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. 

Learn about the ongoing battle against tobacco, new emerging threats like vaping and effective strategies for quitting. Jennifer shares valuable insights into how smoking impacts various populations, why it's so challenging to quit and what systemic changes are needed to combat this pervasive issue.

00:00 The Golden Age of Smoking

01:00 The Decline of Smoking in America

01:32 The Hidden Crisis of Tobacco Use

02:04 Interview with Jennifer Folkenroth

02:45 Progress and Challenges in Reducing Smoking

05:25 Disparities in Tobacco Use

09:38 The Addiction and Its Impact

12:25 The Rise of Alternative Tobacco Products

20:28 Efforts to Help Smokers Quit

35:41 Community and Policy Efforts

40:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the American Lung Association:

• Website: https://www.lung.org/ 
• Call the Lung HelpLine: 1-800-LUNG-USA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lungassociation 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lungusa/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-lung-association 

Learn More about Jennifer Folkenroth:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-h-2a985414/

In this episode of What the Health, we explore the pervasive role of alcohol in American life, the devastating health impacts and the complexities of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Dr. Yngvild Olsen, the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, provides insights into the evolution of terms used to describe AUD, the genetic and environmental risk factors and the health consequences associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Olsen also discusses treatment options, including behavioral and pharmacological interventions, and emphasizes the importance of early identification. Additionally, this episode highlights the inaugural launch of Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, aimed at raising awareness and offering hope to those affected. Join us for an in-depth conversation on breaking the grip of alcohol use disorder.

00:00 Introduction: Alcohol in American Life

01:48 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder

03:57 Current Trends and Statistics

06:59 Genetic and Environmental Factors

10:13 Health Impacts of Alcohol

16:38 Identifying and Addressing Alcohol Use Disorder

30:53 Treatment Options and Misconceptions

36:31 Hope and Future Initiatives

39:29 Conclusion and Resources

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration):

• Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samhsagov/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samhsa 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/substance-abuse-and-mental-health-services-administration/ 

Learn More about Yngvild Olsen, MD, MPH:

• Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/about-us/who-we-are/leadership/biographies/yngvild-olsen 

In this episode of What the Health, we delve into the often-overwhelming stress many feel during the holiday season. Host John Salak speaks with Dr. Ken Duckworth, Chief Medical Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about the various causes of holiday stress, from unrealistic expectations set by Hallmark movies to seasonal affective disorder. Dr. Duckworth offers practical coping strategies tailored to individual needs, emphasizing the importance of being kind to yourself, limiting social media exposure, and seeking support when necessary. Tune in to learn more about managing stress, finding joy in the season and maintaining mental wellness during the holidays. For more insights and Dr. Duckworth's book, 'You Are Not Alone,' visit NAMI.org.

00:00 Introduction: The Joy and Stress of the Holidays

01:24 Understanding Holiday Stress with Dr. Ken Duckworth

01:53 Individual Experiences and Coping Strategies

02:53 The Impact of Idealized Holiday Expectations

04:33 Seasonal Affective Disorder and Other Stress Factors

07:40 Social Media’s Impact on Holiday Stress

14:29 Recognizing Serious Mental Health Symptoms

21:42 Coping Strategies and Seeking Help

26:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness):

• Website: https://www.nami.org/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NAMICommunicate/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NAMI 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nami/ 

Learn More about Ken Duckworth, M.D.:

• Website: https://www.nami.org/about-nami/who-we-are/meet-our-leadership/ken-duckworth/ 

Additional Resources

• You Are Not Alone Book Series: https://www.nami.org/support-education/publications-reports/you-are-not-alone/ 

In this episode of 'What the Health,' John welcomes Dr. Leanne Clark-Shirley, President and CEO of the American Society on Aging, to discuss the multifaceted concept of healthy aging in America. They delve into the various definitions of healthy aging, the pervasive issue of ageism and how societal structures and policies support or hinder the aging population. Dr. Clark-Shirley shares her journey into gerontology and provides valuable insights on how individuals and society as a whole can better prepare for and support an increasingly older population. Learn more about the ongoing efforts and initiatives to promote healthy aging and the importance of shifting perspectives away from youth obsession.

00:00 Introduction: The Inevitable Aging Process

01:03 Defining Healthy Aging

02:05 Guest Introduction: Dr. Leanne Clark Shirley

03:22 Diverse Perspectives on Aging

05:57 The Impact of Ageism

10:25 Economic and Social Implications

23:26 Societal Support and Policy

26:58 Innovative Approaches to Healthy Aging

32:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the American Society on Aging:

• Website: https://www.asaging.org/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/asaging
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asaging/?ref=sgm
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-society-on-aging/

Connect with Dr. Leanne Clark-Shirley:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lclarkshirley/ 

Other Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• AARP's Brain Health Action Collaborative: https://www.aarp.org/brain-health-action/ 
• Sound Health Network: https://soundhealth.ucsf.edu/ 
• SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders):  www.sageusa.org 
• Aging While Black: https://agingwhileblack.co/ 
• National Indian Council on Aging: www.nicoa.org 
• The Third Act: https://thirdact.org/ 

The holiday season often brings indulgent meals and an unhealthy portion of guilt over breaking dietary goals. In this episode of What the Health, we discuss finding a balance between enjoying holiday foods and maintaining a healthy diet with nutrition specialist Dr. Whitney Linsenmeyer from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Learn practical strategies for navigating holiday parties, hosting festive meals, and avoiding extreme diet swings. Tune in for expert advice on enjoying the holidays without sacrificing your health.

00:00 Introduction to Holiday Eating Challenges

01:41 Meet Dr. Whitney Linsenmeyer

02:03 Understanding Holiday Eating Pressures

06:26 Strategies for Healthy Holiday Eating

08:28 Navigating Family and Social Pressures

11:26 Exercise and Physical Activity Tips

12:42 Hosting Healthy Holiday Gatherings

14:49 Alcohol Consumption During the Holidays

15:28 Post-Holiday Resolutions and Mindset

23:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:

• Website: eatrightpro. com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatrightPRO
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatright_pro/
• Twitter: https://x.com/eatrightPRO
• Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eatrightpro/

Connect with Dr. Whitney Linsenmyer:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-linsenmeyer-11189925/ 

In this episode of What the Health, we explore the challenges veterans face upon returning home and how music can play a vital role in their healing process. Host John Salak introduces Terry Radigan, a renowned songwriter involved with SongwritingWith:Soldiers. Terry shares insights into the program, which pairs songwriters with veterans and first responders to create life-changing music. With Veterans Day approaching, Terry discusses the creation and impact of these songs, emphasizing the importance of community and support for those who have served. Tune in to learn more about how you can make a difference and support this powerful initiative.

00:00 Honoring Our Veterans: A National Disconnect

01:23 The Healing Power of Music: SongwritingWith:Soldiers

02:09 Meet Terry Radigan: Songwriter and Healer

02:39 The Mission and Impact of SongwritingWith:Soldiers

07:13 Creating Songs: The Collaborative Process

10:40 Personal Stories and Reflections

24:18 Building a Community Through Music

27:38 Supporting Songwriting with Soldiers

35:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with SongwritingWith:Soldiers:

• Website: https://songwritingwithsoldiers.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/songwritingwithsoldiers/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SongwritingWithSoldiers
• Twitter: https://x.com/songwritingwithsoldiers

In this episode of What the Health, John Salak welcomes Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill to explore the rising levels of political stress in the wake of the current U.S. election cycle. The discussion covers how 24-hour news cycles, social media and performance politics contribute to heightened anxiety and stress. Dr. McNaughton-Cassill provides historical context, noting how media evolution has intensified public stress, and explains psychological tendencies to focus on negative news. 

The episode delves into the media's influence on negativity and the loss of public trust, particularly among young people facing rapid technological and societal changes. Practical strategies for managing political stress are shared, such as moderating news intake, engaging with different perspectives and utilizing the ACT formula—Accept Reality, Create Vision and Take Action. The episode also promotes resilience and optimism, encouraging critical thinking and local activism.

00:00 Introduction: The Political Stress Epidemic

01:05 The Impact of Media on Political Stress

01:47 Expert Insights: Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill

03:08 Historical Context of Political Stress

04:36 The Role of 24-Hour News Cycles

08:53 Psychological Factors and Media Influence

14:16 Generational Differences in Political Stress

20:44 Coping with Modern Stressors

26:22 Adapting Political Strategies in a Polarized World

27:09 The Role of Education in Understanding Polarization

28:06 Terror Management Theory and Fear in Politics

29:42 The Physical Impact of Political Stress

32:10 Managing News Intake to Reduce Stress

33:54 Couples Therapy Approach to Political Discourse

38:33 The ACT Formula for Stress Management

40:24 Optimism and Resilience in Political Uncertainty

42:23 Concluding Thoughts on Political Stress

45:05 Final Remarks and Resources

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill:

Give Way: Coping with Social Stress in the Connected World (Book): https://amzn.to/3BRb0vl

In this episode of What the Health, Meghan Donnelly from the Celiac Disease Foundation explores the challenges and realities of living with celiac disease. Celiac disease is a severe, long-term autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine's ability to absorb nutrients. While celiac disease is tied to gluten ingestion, it differs from gluten sensitivity. The difficulties in diagnosis, asymptomatic nature, and 200-plus potential symptoms of celiac disease are discussed. 

Meghan provides insights into the short- and long-term health impacts and the importance of genetic factors, lifestyle adjustments, and testing options. The necessity of a gluten-free diet is addressed alongside the efforts and obstacles in celiac research, future advancements and the role of the Celiac Disease Foundation. Awareness of potential links to other autoimmune diseases, the global prevalence and the importance of monitoring symptoms in one's diet are also highlighted. Finally, practical tips for managing celiac disease and reliable sources of information are shared, underscoring the importance of self-advocacy and seeking professional guidance.

00:00 Understanding Celiac Disease: An Overview

00:59 Challenges in Diagnosing Celiac Disease

01:35 Ways to Manage and Diagnose Celiac Disease

01:59 Expert Insights: Interview with Meghan Donnelly

02:46 What is Celiac Disease?

04:36 Symptoms and Long-term Impacts

06:06 Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis

07:08 Genetic Factors and Triggers

14:43 Testing and Diagnosis Procedures

23:20 Myths and Misconceptions

26:33 Navigating Gluten-Free Living

32:36 Future of Celiac Disease Research

34:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the Celiac Disease Foundation:

• Website: https://celiac.org/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/celiacdiseasefoundation 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CeliacDiseaseFoundation
• X: https://twitter.com/celiacdotorg
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/celiacdiseasefndtn 

Connect with Meghan Donnelly:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-donnelly-ms-rd-cdn-12496589/?trk=public_post-text

In this episode of What the Health, we discuss the importance of eye care and common vision problems with Dr. Purnima Patel from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The conversation covers various topics, including the prevalence and risks of eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. 

Dr. Patel emphasizes that losing vision with age is not inevitable and highlights proactive measures to maintain eye health, such as wearing sunglasses, eating a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, regular exercise and routine eye exams. The episode also debunks myths surrounding eye exams and explains the advanced technologies available for detecting and managing eye conditions. The discussion aims to encourage listeners to take an active role in protecting their vision. Additionally, the episode underscores the societal impacts of chronic conditions like diabetes on eye health and the importance of early detection and treatment.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Eye Health

01:01 Common Eye Problems and Diseases

02:03 Expert Insights: Dr. Patel on Eye Care

02:54 Understanding Vision Changes with Age

12:31 Eye Health Tips and Misconceptions

17:12 Diabetic Eye Disease and Macular Degeneration

23:08 Glaucoma and Other Eye Conditions

33:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa 

Connect with the Academy of Ophthalmology:

• Website: https://www.aao.org/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaoeye/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyEyeSmart
• Twitter: https://x.com/AcademyEyeSmart
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-academy-of-ophthalmology/

Connect with Dr. Purnima Patel:

• Website: https://www.oravisionga.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pspateleyemd/

In this episode of What the Health, John Salak talks with Saskia Salak, a research scientist at NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab, about the immediate health impacts of climate change. They discuss the growing awareness of climate change, international disparities in understanding its causes and the tangible health risks such as heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues from worsening air quality and the mental health implications of climate change. 

Personal and governmental actions to mitigate and adapt to these changes and actionable steps individuals can take are highlighted. The discussion emphasizes climate justice and addressing the disproportionate effects on vulnerable communities.

00:00 Introduction to the Climate Change Debate

01:26 Personal Impact of Climate Change

02:04 Guest Introduction: Saskia Salak

02:48 Saskia's Journey into Climate Work

04:22 Awareness and Perception of Climate Change

07:53 Defining Climate Change

09:31 Mitigation, Adaptation and Geoengineering

11:38 Challenges in Accepting Climate Change

17:47 Personal Health Impacts of Climate Change

26:59 Understanding the Impact of Fossil Fuels on Climate Change

27:49 The Connection Between Climate Change and Health Issues

27:58 Climate Change and Skin Cancer

28:24 The Role of Ozone and Greenhouse Gases

29:22 Wildfires, Pollution and UV Radiation

30:25 Vector-Borne Diseases and Climate Change

31:43 Food and Water Scarcity

33:41 Mental Health and Climate Change

37:06 Climate Justice and Vulnerable Communities

39:02 China's Role in Climate Change

41:09 Personal Actions Against Climate Change

43:40 Misconceptions and Optimism About Climate Change

46:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa 

Connect with NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab:

• Website: https://www.sps.nyu.edu/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NYUSPS_ECJS_Lab/ 
• Linked-in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nyu-sps-center-for-global-affairs/